Afghanistan delivered a memorable performance in Sharjah, defeating Pakistan by 18 runs in a thrilling T20 tri-series clash. The victory was built on powerful half-centuries from Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal, followed by a magical display of spin bowling that choked Pakistan’s chase.
Afghanistan’s Batting Brilliance
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Afghanistan got exactly the start they wanted. Ibrahim Zadran (65) and Sediqullah Atal (64) stitched together a superb 113-run partnership for the second wicket. Their fearless approach set the tone for the innings.
Both players played attacking cricket, mixing boundaries with sharp running between the wickets. Zadran punished Haris Rauf with a four and six in the same over, while Atal showcased his flair with an inside-out six over covers. By the time Atal was dismissed, Afghanistan had already crossed 150, finishing with a competitive 169 for 5 in 20 overs.
Pakistan’s Rocky Start
Pakistan’s reply faltered right from the beginning. Fast bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi struck with his very first ball, sending Saim Ayub back for a duck. That early jolt set the tone for the chase.
Soon after, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, and young Hasan Nawaz also departed cheaply. By the halfway stage, Pakistan were struggling at 82 for 6, leaving too much for the lower order to do.
Spin Web Seals the Match
Afghanistan’s spinners once again showed why they are rated among the best in the world. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and teenager Noor Ahmad shared six wickets between them, maintaining relentless pressure on Pakistan.
Noor Ahmad impressed with his variations, bowling Ashraf with a peach of a delivery. Nabi kept things tight in the middle overs, while Rashid cleaned up the tail with his trademark googlies.
Though Mohammad Haris fought back with a quickfire 34 not out off 16 balls, it wasn’t enough. Pakistan eventually ended on 151 for 9, falling short by 18 runs.
Key Performances
Ibrahim Zadran – 65 runs, steady anchor role
Sediqullah Atal – 64 runs, attacking strokeplay
Fazalhaq Farooqi – early breakthrough with the new ball
Rashid Khan & Mohammad Nabi – spin mastery in middle overs
Noor Ahmad – 2 wickets on tournament debut
Mohammad Haris (Pak) – 34* in a lone fightback
Why This Win Matters
This victory is more than just two points in a tri-series. It proves Afghanistan’s growing strength in T20 cricket, particularly their ability to perform under pressure against top teams like Pakistan.
For Pakistan, the loss highlights concerns in the middle order and their over-dependence on top-order batsmen. With the Asia Cup 2025 around the corner, the team will need to regroup quickly.
A Statement Ahead of the Asia Cup
As the cricketing world gears up for the Asia Cup, this result will surely give Afghanistan a morale boost. Their batsmen showed maturity, and their spinners once again displayed their class on a big stage.
For fans, this win adds spice to the upcoming tournament, where both teams are likely to cross paths again. If Afghanistan can replicate this kind of all-round performance, they will be serious contenders.
