Sharjah, August 29, 2025 –
Pakistan vs Afghanistan – 1st T20I: Salman Agha, Haris Rauf Star as Pakistan Outclass Afghanistan in Sharjah
Pakistan announced their intent in style as they brushed aside Afghanistan by 39 runs in the opening fixture of the UAE T20I Tri-Series 2025 at the historic Sharjah Cricket Stadium. A captain’s masterclass from Salman Ali Agha and a ruthless bowling display, spearheaded by Haris Rauf, sealed a convincing win for the Men in Green.
This result not only gave Pakistan an early advantage in the tri-series featuring Afghanistan and the hosts UAE but also served as an ideal build-up for the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025.
Toss & Strategy: Playing to Strengths
On a surface known for its low bounce and variable pace, winning the toss was crucial. Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha made no hesitation in opting to bat first, trusting his batting depth and banking on scoreboard pressure under the lights.
The strategy was simple: post a par-plus score on a sluggish Sharjah wicket and let Pakistan’s varied bowling attack exploit Afghanistan’s fragile middle order.
Pakistan’s Innings: From Collapse to Command
Pakistan’s innings began shakily. The Afghan pace duo found early rhythm, reducing Pakistan to 83/4 by the halfway mark. The top order—despite flashes of aggression—failed to convert starts into substantial scores.
It was then that Salman Ali Agha stepped up to showcase his composure under pressure. Walking in with his side wobbling, the captain played a measured yet impactful knock of 53 off 36 balls*, blending controlled strokes with timely aggression. His innings included 3 fours and 3 towering sixes, each puncturing Afghanistan’s momentum.
Agha’s steady partnership with Mohammad Nawaz, who chipped in with valuable runs, rebuilt the innings and set the stage for a late flourish. Cameos from the lower order propelled Pakistan to 182/7 in their allotted 20 overs—a total well above par considering the conditions.
Afghanistan’s Chase: Hope and Heartbreak
Afghanistan’s response began positively. Rahmanullah Gurbaz provided the spark with 38 off 27 balls, striking boundaries with authority. At 92/2, Afghanistan appeared to be in control of the chase, with wickets in hand and the required rate under check.
But the match turned dramatically within minutes. A lethal spell from Haris Rauf (4/31) ripped through the Afghan middle order. His express pace and clever variations dismantled any hopes of a steady chase. Supporting him was young spinner Sufiyan Muqeem, whose two wickets tightened the noose further.
From 92/2, Afghanistan collapsed to 97/7 in the span of just 17 deliveries, a collapse that shattered their momentum.
Though Rashid Khan fought valiantly with a breathtaking cameo of 39 off 16 balls, blasting sixes to keep the crowd entertained, the damage had been done. Eventually, Afghanistan folded for 143 in 19.5 overs, handing Pakistan a 39-run win.
Match Summary
| Team | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 182/7 (20 overs) | Win |
| Afghanistan | 143 (19.5 overs) | Lost by 39 runs |
Player of the Match: Salman Ali Agha (53 off 36) – For anchoring Pakistan’s innings under pressure.*
Key Performances & Talking Points
- Captain Fantastic – Salman Agha: With wickets tumbling, his composed half-century stood tall. It wasn’t just runs but the timing of his acceleration that made the difference.
- Rauf’s Roar – Haris Rauf (4/31): His fiery spell was a reminder of why he is Pakistan’s strike bowler in T20Is. His double-strike in the 14th over triggered Afghanistan’s collapse.
- Muqeem’s Breakthroughs: The young left-arm spinner backed his skipper’s trust, taking crucial wickets that halted Afghan partnerships.
- Rashid Khan’s Fireworks: His blistering knock kept fans on the edge, but without support, it was too little, too late.
Post-Match Reactions
Speaking after the game, Salman Agha credited his bowlers:
“The pitch wasn’t easy to bat on, so we knew 180-plus was defendable. Haris and Muqeem were exceptional—our bowlers executed the plans perfectly.”
Meanwhile, Afghan captain Rashid Khan admitted the collapse cost them dearly:
“We were in a good position at 92/2, but lost wickets too quickly. Credit to Pakistan, they didn’t allow us to settle.”
Looking Ahead
Pakistan’s dominant win puts them in pole position in the UAE T20I Tri-Series, giving them momentum and confidence ahead of tougher challenges. For Afghanistan, the defeat highlighted the need for greater batting stability, especially in the middle order, if they are to bounce back in the tournament.
With more matches lined up in Sharjah, fans can expect exciting contests as both sides fine-tune their strategies before the Asia Cup 2025.
Source Credits
- Match Report & Stats: ESPNcricinfo – Salman and Rauf too good for Afghanistan in tri-series
- Live Updates & Summary: The Indian Express – Pakistan vs Afghanistan, UAE T20I Tri-Series 2025
