PAK VS AFG: Men in green lost first clash of UAE Tri-Series against Afghanistan

SHARJAH: Afghanistan secured a memorable 18-run victory over Pakistan in a thrilling encounter of the T20I Tri-Series in the UAE, showing grit with both bat and ball.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan posted a solid 169-5 in their 20 overs against Pakistan.

The backbone of their innings was a brilliant 64 (45) from the ever-reliable Sediqullah Atal, well supported by Ibrahim Zadran, who added 65 off just 45 balls.

The duo put on a crucial 123-run stand for the second wicket. Despite a few quick wickets towards the end, Rashid Khan’s cameo (8 off 4) gave Afghanistan a strong finish.

Pakistan’s chase got off to a rocky start, with openers failing to convert.

UAE vs AFG recap: Afghanistan win 3rd T20I by 38 runs in Sharjah

Fakhar Zaman looked promising with 25 off 18, but the Afghan bowlers kept chipping away at the wickets. Shaheen Afridi gave Pakistan a late glimmer of hope with a blistering unbeaten 34 off just 16 balls, but it came too late as the team finished at 151-9.

The Afghan bowling attack was clinical, with Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad each picking up two wickets. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Allah Ghazanfar also struck crucial blows early on.

With this win, Afghanistan continue to assert their dominance in the tri-series, displaying a fine balance of power-hitting and disciplined bowling.

Player of the Match: Sediqullah Atal (64 off 45 balls)