Pakistan made a commanding start to the T20I Tri-Series in UAE 2025, defeating Afghanistan by 39 runs in the opening match at Sharjah Cricket Stadium yesterday. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted a challenging total of 182/7 in 20 overs, setting the stage for a dominant performance.
The innings was anchored by Salman Ali Agha, who played a crucial knock of 53 not out off 36 balls, while Sahibzada Farhan and Mohammad Nawaz provided vital support with quickfire contributions of 21 each. Their collective effort ensured Pakistan had a total that proved difficult for Afghanistan to chase.
For Afghanistan, Fareed Ahmad was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/47, and Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb Ur Rahman chipped in with one wicket each.
Chasing 183, Afghanistan struggled to keep up with the required run rate, finishing at 143 in 19.5 overs. The innings saw notable performances from Rashid Khan, who scored 39 off 16 balls, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who contributed 38 off 27. However, Pakistan’s bowlers were relentless.
Haris Rauf emerged as the star with the ball, claiming 4/31 in just 3.5 overs, while Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz picked up two wickets apiece, effectively dismantling Afghanistan’s batting line-up.
Pakistan’s balanced performance with both bat and ball ensured they took an early 1-0 lead in the seven-match T20I series. The victory also highlighted the depth in Pakistan’s squad, with all-round contributions making the difference.
The tri-series continues in Sharjah, with the next match promising another exciting clash as both teams look to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the ICC tournaments later this year.
Match Summary:
- Pakistan: 182/7 (20 overs) – Salman Ali Agha 53*, Sahibzada Farhan 21, Mohammad Nawaz 21; Fareed Ahmad 2/47
- Afghanistan: 143 (19.5 overs) – Rashid Khan 39, Rahmanullah Gurbaz 38; Haris Rauf 4/31, Shaheen Afridi 2/21, Mohammad Nawaz 2/23
- Result: Pakistan won by 39 runs, lead 1-0 in the series
- Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium
