Afghanistan and Pakistan Set for High-Stakes Final in Sharjah Ahead of Asia Cup
Sharjah: The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the UAE T20I Tri-Nation Series as Afghanistan and Pakistan prepare to clash in the final tonight at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Both teams earned their spots through compelling performances during the group stage, building momentum ahead of next week’s Asia Cup.
Pakistan topped the group with three wins, including a 31-run victory over the UAE, highlighted by Fakhar Zaman’s unbeaten 77 and a career-best 4 for 9 from Abrar Ahmed, securing their position in the final.
Afghanistan secured their place with nerve-wracking wins, most notably defending 170 against the UAE in a dramatic finish and previously defeating Pakistan with Ibrahim Zadran (65) and Sediqullah Atal (64) anchoring the chase.
Reflecting the team’s mindset, Pakistan all-rounder Faheem Ashraf humorously shrugged off queries about missing stars Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, quipping they’d “even forgotten our family members,” showcasing the side’s confidence despite the big omissions.
Both sides have used this tri-series as preparation for the Asia Cup, which starts on September 9 in the UAE. Pakistan has omitted stalwarts Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in favor of a more attacking, dynamic lineup led by Salman Ali Agha, signaling a strategic shift.
Meanwhile, the UAE, although it was not in the final, recently unveiled its Asia Cup squad, led by Muhammad Waseem, highlighting a full-strength mix aimed at challenging the top Asian cricketing nations.