Sharjah: Afghanistan continued their remarkable rise in international cricket with an 18-run victory over Pakistan in the UAE T20I Tri-Series, powered by a record partnership between Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal and a dominant display from their spinners.
After being sent in to bat, Afghanistan recovered from an early setback to post 169 for 5, thanks to a superb 113-run second-wicket stand between Zadran (65) and Atal (64). Their partnership, the second-highest for Afghanistan in T20Is for that wicket, laid a solid platform, though Pakistan’s Faheem Ashraf (4-27) pegged them back late with his career-best figures.
In reply, Pakistan faltered against Afghanistan’s famed spin trio. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad combined for six wickets, dismantling the middle order and reducing Pakistan from 62 for 2 to 111 for 9. Left-arm quick Fazalhaq Farooqi struck early to remove Saim Ayub for a golden duck, before the spinners took charge on a surface that offered turn despite heavy dew.
Only Haris Rauf (34* off 16) provided late resistance with some lusty blows, but it was too little, too late, as Pakistan closed on 151 for 9, still 18 runs short.
The result highlighted Afghanistan’s growing reputation as one of the most formidable spin-bowling sides in world cricket. While Pakistan struggled for answers, Afghanistan’s composure under pressure once again proved decisive.
Key Performers:
- Ibrahim Zadran – 65 (anchored the innings)
- Sediqullah Atal – 64 (second successive fifty)
- Faheem Ashraf – 4/27 (career-best in T20Is)
- Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi & Noor Ahmad, 2 wickets each (spun Pakistan out)
With this win, Afghanistan has not only strengthened its position in the tri-series but also sent a strong message ahead of the T20 World Cup next year, and 9 days togo to Asia Cup.