On August 29, 2025, Pakistan launched the tri-series with a commanding 39-run victory over Afghanistan at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Salman Ali Agha’s unbeaten fifty anchored Pakistan’s batting, while Haris Rauf’s four-wicket haul sealed the win, giving Pakistan a strong start in the tournament.
Pakistan vs Afghanistan T20I
Pakistan posted a solid 182/7, powered by the skipper’s unbeaten 53 off 36 balls.
Defending the total, Pakistan’s star pacer Haris Rauf shone with 4/31, leading the bowling attack.
Afghanistan, chasing 183, were bowled out for 143 in 19.5 overs.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz scored 38, and Rashid Khan’s explosive 39 off 16 kept the chase alive briefly.
However, a middle-order collapse handed Pakistan the upper hand, with their spinners and pacers sealing a 39-run victory.
While batting first, Pakistan attacked early through Sahibzada Farhan’s 21 off 10.
Agha and Mohammad Nawaz added 53 for the fifth wicket to rebuild the innings.
The captain’s call to bat first proved correct under lights.
Agha later praised the bowlers for “executing the plan,” highlighting Rauf’s spell as the difference.
What’s next for Pakistan
The ongoing tri-series in the UAE, featuring hosts UAE, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, serves as a key preparation for the Asia Cup.
Pakistan’s selectors have opted for a new-look T20 side, led by Agha, ahead of the Asia Cup.
Senior batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been rested, providing emerging players with valuable match experience.
In their recent outing, Pakistan showcased strong bowling depth, sharp fielding, and composure despite a mid-innings batting wobble.
Afghanistan, meanwhile, displayed early batting promise but faltered after the seventh over, struggling to rebuild partnerships.
Their spin attack and late-order hitting remain potent threats.
As momentum shifts to the second game, Pakistan aims to solidify their batting lineup and refine their death bowling.
Afghanistan will focus on stronger partnerships and a more consistent finish to challenge their opponents.
For more sports news: Hasan Nawaz speaks on Pakistan’s build-up to Tri-series, Asia Cup 2025 in UAE
