Sharjah, UAE — August 29, 2025 (Republicpk.com)
Pakistan delivered a clinical performance under the lights at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, defeating Afghanistan by 39 runs in a gripping T20I showdown. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted a formidable 182/7 in their 20 overs, with Salman Ali Agha anchoring the innings with a composed 53* off 36 balls. His knock, laced with precision and calm under pressure, proved pivotal as wickets fell around him.
Afghanistan’s chase never quite took off. Despite flashes of intent from their top order, Pakistan’s bowlers maintained tight lines and varied pace, triggering a collapse that saw Afghanistan bundled out for 143 in 19.5 overs. The spin duo and death-over specialists executed their plans flawlessly, leaving Afghan batters searching for answers.
The result not only boosts Pakistan’s morale ahead of upcoming fixtures but also exposes Afghanistan’s vulnerability in high-pressure chases. With the tri-series heating up, both teams will need to recalibrate Pakistan to sustain their momentum, and Afghanistan to rebuild their batting depth.