Match Overview
The much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and Afghanistan in the opening game of the UAE T20I Tri-Nation Series 2025 turned into a spectacle of resilience and dominance. Held at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Pakistan emerged victorious by 39 runs, sending a strong message ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 preparations. Afghanistan, despite showing early promise, faltered under the weight of Pakistan’s experience and firepower.
Pakistan’s Roller-Coaster Innings
Batting first, Pakistan’s innings began with unexpected turbulence. The top order collapsed dramatically, losing 5 wickets for just 4 runs, leaving the Sharjah crowd stunned. However, the team showcased remarkable resilience, led by Salman Ali Agha’s unbeaten 53 off 36 balls, which turned the tide.
- Key Contributions:
- Salman Ali Agha – 53* (36 balls, 4 fours, 2 sixes)
- Imad Wasim – handy 28 (20 balls) in the lower order
- Mohammad Nawaz – chipped in with 20 crucial runs
The recovery effort pushed Pakistan’s score to 182/9, a total that looked improbable at one stage. Afghanistan’s bowlers, particularly Rashid Khan (2/25) and Naveen-ul-Haq (2/30), impressed early on but couldn’t contain the counter-attack.
Afghanistan’s Chase: From Promise to Collapse
Chasing 183, Afghanistan started positively, reaching 92/2 in the 12th over, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz (38 off 24 balls) providing momentum. But what followed was a shocking collapse: Afghanistan lost 5 wickets for just 5 runs in 17 balls, crumbling to 97/7.
- Top Scorers:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 38 (24 balls)
- Ibrahim Zadran – 25 (20 balls)
- Najibullah Zadran – 15 (12 balls)
Once the middle order folded, Afghanistan never recovered and were bowled out for 143 in 18.4 overs.
Pakistan’s Bowling Firepower
The hero of the night was Haris Rauf, whose fiery pace rattled Afghanistan. His spell of 4/22 dismantled the Afghan batting, earning him the Player of the Match award. He was ably supported by Sufiyan Muqeem (2/18) and Shaheen Afridi (1/27), who maintained relentless pressure.
- Bowling Highlights:
- Haris Rauf – 4 wickets (match-winning spell)
- Sufiyan Muqeem – 2/18, controlled the middle overs
- Shaheen Afridi – economical with new ball pressure
Reactions & Takeaways
- Pakistan’s Perspective:
Skipper Babar Azam praised his team’s resilience, emphasizing how the middle order bailed the side out after a disastrous start. The bowling unit’s discipline was also highlighted as a decisive factor. - Afghanistan’s Concerns:
Skipper Rashid Khan admitted the collapse was “unacceptable at this level” and stressed the need for greater composure in high-pressure situations. Afghanistan will need to regroup quickly before facing UAE in their next match. - Fans & Experts:
The match drew reactions across social media, with many hailing Pakistan’s comeback as “classic Sharjah drama.” Analysts noted that Pakistan’s ability to recover from adversity makes them a dangerous side heading into the Asia Cup.
Series Context
The Tri-Series, featuring Pakistan, Afghanistan, and UAE, runs from 29 August to 7 September 2025. With all games being played in Sharjah, the tournament serves as a testing ground for team combinations, strategies, and fitness levels ahead of larger tournaments.
- Next Matches:
- Afghanistan vs UAE
- Pakistan vs UAE
- Final: Top two teams to face off on 7 September 2025.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s 39-run victory over Afghanistan was more than just a win—it was a statement of intent. From a disastrous start to a clinical finish, the match showcased Pakistan’s depth and fighting spirit. For Afghanistan, the collapse highlighted familiar concerns about their middle-order fragility, something they must fix quickly if they aim to challenge stronger sides.
As the Tri-Series continues, all eyes will be on whether Afghanistan can bounce back and whether Pakistan can maintain their momentum heading into the Asia Cup.
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Author: Team BTP
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