UAE captain Ahmed Raza insists there are plenty of positives to take from their drawn two-day practice game against Oman on Sunday.

– #360USA: All Stars a huge success for USA cricket
– PAKvENG: Both sides register warm-up ODI wins

With the tourists resuming play at 49-1, Raza was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets, while debutant Yodhin Punja took 3-34 as Oman were all out for 163 after 57 overs. But with a 39-run lead, the UAE could not build on that momentum and the batting woes in the longer format showed.

Only Swapnil Patil (41), Raza (12) and Nasir Aziz (13) reached double figures as the UAE were skittled out for 95, before Oman forced a draw, reaching 45-3.

With the ICC Intercontinental Cup match against Hong Kong coming up on Wednesday, Raza admits there are still areas for improvement, but overall he was pleased by what he saw.

“We showed a lot of fighting spirit today,” said the 27-year-old spinner. “To take nine wickets on the second day (in the first innings) is never easy but we battled hard and didn’t give up. And to take another three wickets in the second innings is really pleasing. I’m really pleased with our bowling and hope we can take this forward for the game against Hong Kong."

He added: “Yes, the batting is an area we need to improve on but that will come in time and through hours of practice. There were some encouraging signs that we are slowly adapting. It’s important the batsmen don’t throw their wicket as concentration is vital in the longer format. Overall there are plenty of positives to gain from this match.”

Raza finished the game with five scalps and while he was happy with his performance, he is fully aware his team must be even better in the four-day game against Hong Kong.

“It’s a test of character for us,” said the Interface player. “We are not used to playing the longer format but we must remain focused on the field and, with time, runs will be scored and wickets will be taken.”