Sun Aug 31 01:00:00 UTC 2025: **Pakistan Clinches Victory Against Afghanistan in Tri-Nation Series Opener**
**Sharjah, UAE -** Pakistan secured a convincing 39-run victory over Afghanistan in the first T20I of the Tri-Nation Series held in Sharjah. A solid batting performance led by captain Salman Agha’s half-century, coupled with a devastating bowling display from Haris Rauf, propelled Pakistan to the win.
Pakistan, after winning the toss and electing to bat, posted a total of 182/7 in their 20 overs. The innings started shakily, with the team losing four wickets by the 83-run mark. However, captain Salman Agha anchored the innings with an unbeaten 53, supported by contributions from Sahibzada Farhan (21), Mohammad Nawaz (21), and Mohammad Haris (15). Farid Ahmad took two wickets for Afghanistan.
Chasing 183, Afghanistan’s batting lineup faltered early, losing wickets at regular intervals. At 97/7, the game appeared firmly in Pakistan’s grasp. However, a quick-fire cameo of 39 runs off just 16 balls from captain Rashid Khan, including five towering sixes (three off Haris Rauf in one over), briefly sparked hope for Afghanistan.
But Rashid Khan’s dismissal extinguished any chances of a comeback, and the Afghan innings folded for 143. Rahmanullah Gurbaz contributed 38, but the rest of the batting order failed to make a significant impact.
Haris Rauf was the standout bowler for Pakistan, claiming 4 wickets for 31 runs. Afghanistan’s top order struggled, with seven batsmen failing to reach double figures.
The win gives Pakistan a strong start to the Tri-Nation series.
First Piper 