Afghanistan Defeat Pakistan by 18 Runs in Tri-Nation Series Clash

Sharjah – In a thrilling fourth match of the tri-nation series, Afghanistan defeated Pakistan by 18 runs, successfully defending a target of 170 runs at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

After winning the toss, Afghanistan opted to bat first and posted a competitive total of 169 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was powered by impressive knocks from Ibrahim Zadran (65) and Sediqullah Atal (64), who anchored the Afghan innings with a steady partnership.

For Pakistan, Faheem Ashraf stood out with the ball, picking up 4 wickets, while Saim Ayub managed to claim one.

Pakistan’s Struggle with the Bat

Chasing 170, Pakistan’s batting line-up failed to build momentum and managed only 151 runs for 9 wickets in their 20 overs. The Afghan bowlers kept tight control, regularly taking wickets and never allowing Pakistan to settle into the chase.

Haris Rauf, surprisingly, was the top scorer for Pakistan with an unbeaten 34 runs, followed by Fakhar Zaman (25) and Salman Ali Agha (20). The rest of the batting order collapsed under pressure:

• Sahibzada Farhan: 18

• Mohammad Nawaz: 12

• Faheem Ashraf: 14

• Saim Ayub & Shaheen Afridi: both dismissed on the first ball they faced

Afghanistan’s bowlers delivered a collective performance. Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad all picked up 2 wickets each, dismantling the Pakistani batting order.

Tribute to Disaster Victims

Before the match began, players from both Pakistan and Afghanistan observed a one-minute silence to express solidarity with the victims of recent floods and earthquakes in the region.

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Captain’s Comments

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan, after winning the toss, said the team was confident following their victory over UAE and aimed to post a challenging total. Spinner Noor Ahmad was included in the playing XI.

Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha said he would have preferred to bowl first as well. He confirmed two changes in the lineup: Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf returned to the squad, replacing Hasan Ali and Salman Mirza.