Pakistan began their United Arab Emirates T20I Tri-Series campaign with a convincing 39-run victory over Afghanistan at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday night. Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted a challenging total of 182 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks largely to captain Salman Agha’s superb unbeaten half-century that anchored the innings and provided much-needed stability in the middle order. Alongside him, contributions from the top order ensured Pakistan had momentum throughout the innings, while Afghanistan’s bowlers struggled to contain the run flow during the death overs. In reply, Afghanistan started with intent but quickly lost wickets at regular intervals, which derailed their chase. Pakistan’s fast bowlers, led by the fiery Haris Rauf, kept up the pressure and dismantled Afghanistan’s middle order before eventually bowling them out for 143 in 19.5 overs. The disciplined bowling performance combined with sharp fielding highlighted Pakistan’s all-round dominance in the contest. Salman Agha was deservedly named Player of the Match for his match-winning knock that set the platform for Pakistan’s success. The result gives Pakistan an early boost in the tri-series, which also features host United Arab Emirates, and provides them with valuable momentum ahead of their Asia Cup preparations. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly and address their batting frailties before their next outing.
