Sharjah: Pakistan secured a 39-run victory over Afghanistan in the opening match of the UAE T20I tri-series, thanks to a strong batting display and a devastating spell from Haris Rauf.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 182 for 7, with captain Salman Agha leading the way with an unbeaten 53 off 36 balls. Sahibzada Farhan’s quick 21 off 10 balls gave them momentum early, while Mohammad Nawaz (21) and Mohammad Haris (17) provided important late runs.
Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Fareed Ahmad (2–47) and Rashid Khan, slowed the scoring in the middle overs, but Pakistan still managed 99 runs in the last nine overs.
Afghanistan’s chase looked promising at 93 for 2 in the 11th over with Rahmanullah Gurbaz (38) and Sediqullah Atal steadying the innings.
However, the match completely turned in the 12th over, when Haris Rauf delivered a double-wicket maiden, sparking a collapse. Afghanistan lost five wickets for just five runs in the space of 16 balls, falling from a strong position to 98 for 7.
Although Rashid Khan smashed 39 off just 16 balls to provide late resistance, Afghanistan were bowled out for 143, handing Pakistan a comfortable win. Rauf finished with 4 for 31, earning the man-of-the-match honors.
With this victory, Pakistan took an early lead in the tri-series, while Afghanistan will aim to bounce back in their upcoming match.
it was a great match