Pakistan got their United Arab Emirates T20I Tri-Series 2025 campaign off to a flying start with a convincing 39-run win over Afghanistan in the tournament opener at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Pakistan captain’s composed knock and a disciplined bowling performance headlined Pakistan’s all-round display.
Salman Ali Agha sizzles with dazzling fifty
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 182/7 in their 20 overs, powered by Salman Ali Agha’s fluent half-century. The innings started briskly with Sahibzada Farhan’s quickfire 21 off just 10 balls, laced with a four and two sixes. Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub chipped in with useful contributions, but it was Salman who anchored the middle overs. His 53 off 36 deliveries, including three fours and as many sixes, gave Pakistan the momentum they needed. Cameos from Mohammad Nawaz (21 off 11) and Faheem Ashraf (14 off 5) pushed the score beyond the 180-run mark.
Afghanistan’s bowlers had their moments, with Fareed Ahmad Malik picking up two wickets but conceding 47 runs in his spell. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, and Azmatullah Omarzai took a wicket each, but Pakistan’s batting depth ensured a challenging total.
Afghanistan falter despite Rashid Khan’s late blitz
Chasing 183, Afghanistan struggled to build partnerships as Pakistan’s bowlers struck at regular intervals. Rahmanullah Gurbaz gave them hope with a fluent 38 off 27, while Sediqullah Atal (23) and Darwish Rasooli (21) played handy knocks. However, the middle order collapsed as Karim Janat and Azmatullah Omarzai fell for ducks, leaving the chase in disarray.
Just when the game looked over, Rashid produced an explosive counterattack. His stunning 39 off just 16 balls, featuring one four and five sixes, momentarily revived Afghanistan’s chances. But once he departed, the tail folded quickly and Afghanistan were bundled out for 143 in 19.5 overs.
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Pakistan bowlers deliver under pressure
The bowling unit delivered a clinical performance with Haris Rauf leading the charge. His fiery spell of 4/31 broke the back of Afghanistan’s chase, while Shaheen Afridi (2/21) and Mohammad Nawaz (2/23) maintained constant pressure. Youngster Sufiyan Muqeem also impressed with 2/25 in his four overs.
The all-round effort ensured Pakistan defended the total comfortably, sealing a 39-run victory to begin their tri-series campaign on a positive note. For his match-defining knock of 53 runs, Agha Salman was adjudged the Player of the Match. His innings not only stabilized Pakistan’s batting but also provided the acceleration that set up the win.
Pakistan beat Afghanistan by 39 runs 👉 https://t.co/QpdmPLagqn#cricket #AFGvPAK pic.twitter.com/YiWlUjaJCU
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) August 30, 2025
