Pakistan showcased an outstanding all-round display to secure a 39-run victory over Afghanistan in the tri-series opener at a bustling Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday.
After opting to bat, Pakistan reached 182 for seven, led by skipper Salman Agha’s unbeaten 53 off 36 balls, featuring three fours and three sixes. The bowlers then excelled, dismissing Afghanistan for 143 in 19.5 overs.
Salman Agha celebrates his fifty.
Pace bowler Haris Rauf delivered a standout performance with figures of 4/31, while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi also impressed with two wickets for 21 runs in his four overs.
This decisive win boosts Pakistan’s confidence ahead of the Asia Cup in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, starting September 9.
“Every match counts for us, and our intensive training in Dubai has been crucial,” Rauf remarked post-match.
Chasing 183, Afghanistan struggled at 97/7, with captain Rashid Khan’s quick 39 off 16 balls merely postponing the outcome.
“We lost too many wickets between overs 11-15, disrupting our momentum. A few good overs could have changed the game,” Rashid reflected.
Rashid Khan in action.
Pakistan returns to action on Saturday against the UAE in their second tournament match.
The UAE, led by Muhammad Wasim, made headlines with a 2-1 T20I series victory over Bangladesh at the same venue in May. However, facing Pakistan poses a significant challenge as they prepare for their first Asia Cup in over a decade.
The match kicks off at 7 pm.
