In a gripping T20 tri-series showdown in Sharjah on September 3, 2025, Afghanistan’s spin trio of Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and debutant Noor Ahmad outfoxed Pakistan’s formidable batting lineup to secure a dramatic 18-run win. The victory was set up by explosive half-centuries from openers Ibrahim Zadran (65) and Sediqullah Atal (64), whose 113-run partnership propelled Afghanistan to a competitive 169-5.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Afghanistan rode on the back of Zadran and Atal’s aggressive strokeplay. The duo, fresh off half-centuries against UAE the previous day, dominated Pakistan’s bowlers, with Haris Rauf and spinners Mohammad Nawaz and Sufiyan Muqeem leaking 95 runs in eight overs. However, Pakistan’s Abbas Ashraf (4-27) clawed back in the death overs, dismissing both openers and curbing Afghanistan’s late surge.

Pakistan’s chase started disastrously as Fazalhaq Farooqi struck twice in the powerplay, removing Saim Ayub for a duck and Sahibzada Farhan (18). The Afghan spinners then tightened the screws, with Khan, Nabi, and Ahmad claiming six wickets. Fakhar Zaman’s brisk 25 was cut short by Nabi, while a stunning run-out by Khan dismissed captain Salman Ali Agha. Pakistan crumbled to 82-6 by the 12th over, and despite a late 34 not out from Haris Rauf, they finished at 151-9.

Also Read: South Africa Crushes England by 7 Wickets in ODI Opener

This marked the fourth consecutive game in the tri-series where teams defended their totals, with UAE still winless. Afghanistan and Pakistan sit tied with four points each, setting the stage for a thrilling finale as Pakistan faces UAE on Thursday.

Also Read: Shubman Gill Set for Aggressive Asia Cup Role, Says Irfan Pathan