Ahead of Asia Cup, Afghanistan stun Pakistan in T20I tri-series in Sharjah

Afghanistan’s thrilling 18-run victory in a low-scoring match at Sharjah on August 2 served as a stark warning to Pakistan ahead of the Asia Cup. The Afghans’ batting display, which at first glance seemed modest, evolved into a commanding one, with their spinners stepping up to secure a memorable victory.

Afghanistan chose to bat first after winning the toss, although they got off to a rough start to their innings. Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s early dismissals raised the possibility that the Afghans might have trouble, and Pakistan’s Faheem Ashraf appeared to be in command with his four-wicket haul (4/27). But in the end, the game was completely reversed by Afghanistan’s spinners.

A pivotal 113-run partnership between Sediqullah Atal and Ibrahim Zadran saved Afghanistan from early defeats. Despite struggling and only producing single-digit scores after this stand, the remaining batting lineup managed to compile a respectable total of 169 at the end of 20 overs. Ibrahim Zadran was named Man of the Match for stabilizing Afghanistan’s innings under duress with a score of 65 off 45 balls.

Pakistani Spin Trio Skittles

Chasing 170, Pakistan looked poised but were immediately hit by Fazalhaq Farooqi’s fiery bowling, which sent Saim Ayub back for a golden duck in the second over and removed opener Sahibzada Farhan in the fourth. Then, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Nabi, and Noor Ahmed, Afghanistan’s spin trio, seized charge. Rashid extended his lead as the highest T20I wicket-taker with his 2/30 spell taking his tally to 167 wickets. Along with Rashid, Nabi (2/20), and Noor Ahmed (2/20) stifled Pakistan’s middle order, ensuring no batter could establish a partnership.

Salman Ali Agha, the captain, and Fakhar Zaman put up a brief fight in the middle, but Nabi’s fast turning delivery to Farooqi hit Agha, and the captain was run out cheaply. With wickets falling at regular intervals, the lower order—including Mohammad Haris—failed to revive the pursuit. In the end, Pakistan scored 151/9, missing by 18 runs.

Afghanistan’s success, which reflects consistent improvement in T20 Cricket, provides them more confidence going into the Asia Cup. The defeat serves as a reminder of Pakistan’s shortcomings as they get ready for the tournament, where they will begin play against Oman on September 12.