The opening clash of the Pakistan vs Afghanistan tri-nation series in Sharjah brought thrilling cricket as Pakistan sealed a convincing 39-run victory. Captain Salman Ali Agha’s brilliant half-century and Mohammad Nawaz’s all-round brilliance gave Pakistan the upper hand, while Afghanistan’s batting collapse turned the match in Pakistan’s favor. With this win, Pakistan has made a strong statement in the tri-nation series, where their next challenge will be against the United Arab Emirates.
Salman Ali Agha Answers Critics in the Pakistan vs Afghanistan Tri-Nation Series
For months, Salman Ali Agha had been under pressure due to his inconsistent batting performances in international cricket. Critics questioned his place in the squad, but the tri-nation opener proved to be a turning point. The 36-ball 53* he played against Afghanistan not only anchored Pakistan’s innings but also silenced his detractors.
Salman’s innings featured three sixes and three fours, including two consecutive sixes against Rashid Khan, one of the world’s best spinners. This aggressive knock, coupled with a vital 53-run stand alongside Mohammad Nawaz, gave Pakistan the momentum it needed to post a competitive total. His leadership on the field also reflected maturity, setting the tone for Pakistan’s campaign in the Pakistan vs Afghanistan tri-nation series.
Mohammad Nawaz Stars with Bat and Ball
Mohammad Nawaz once again showcased why he is considered one of Pakistan’s most dependable all-rounders. With the bat, he played a brisk cameo of 23 runs off just 11 balls, striking two sixes and a four. His ability to accelerate in the death overs helped Pakistan push their total to 182 for 7 in 20 overs.
With the ball, Nawaz was equally effective. He picked up crucial wickets at the right moments, including the dismissal of Afghanistan’s dangerous opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz for 38. Nawaz also sent Azmatullah Umarzai packing for a duck and ended with economical figures, putting Pakistan firmly in control. His all-round display was one of the biggest highlights of the Pakistan vs Afghanistan tri-nation series opener.
Bowling Brilliance Seals Pakistan’s Victory
Pakistan’s bowling attack demonstrated its firepower in defending the 182-run target. Afghanistan had a strong start, scoring 50 runs inside the first six overs of the powerplay. However, the middle overs saw a dramatic collapse.
Haris Rauf delivered a sensational double-wicket maiden over, removing Siddiqullah (23) and Karim Jannat (0) in quick succession. His final figures of 4 for 31 broke Afghanistan’s back. Shaheen Afridi struck early by bowling Ibrahim Zadran for 9 and later dismissed Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Meanwhile, Sufyan Muqim chipped in with two wickets, and Nawaz’s spin accounted for more Afghan batters.
Afghanistan’s middle and lower order collapsed, losing five wickets for just four runs at one stage. From being 92/2 in the 11th over, Afghanistan crashed to 143 all out. Despite Rashid Khan’s late cameo of 39 runs off 16 balls, including three consecutive sixes, Pakistan’s disciplined bowling ensured a comfortable win in the Pakistan vs Afghanistan tri-nation series opener.
Afghanistan’s Missed Opportunities
Afghanistan had their chances in the match. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dropped early when Shaheen Afridi put him down off Mohammad Nawaz’s bowling. Gurbaz made the most of the chance, scoring 38 runs. However, Afghanistan’s inability to build partnerships after the powerplay hurt them badly.
The team needed 98 runs in the last 10 overs, but regular wickets derailed their chase. Their reliance on individual brilliance rather than partnerships was exposed once again in the Pakistan vs Afghanistan tri-nation series.
Looking Ahead in the Pakistan vs Afghanistan Tri-Nation Series
Pakistan’s win gives them a major confidence boost ahead of their next match against the United Arab Emirates on Saturday. The team will be encouraged by Salman Ali Agha’s return to form and Nawaz’s all-round display. Haris Rauf’s wicket-taking spells and Shaheen Afridi’s early breakthroughs also show that Pakistan’s bowling unit is in fine rhythm.
Afghanistan, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly. Their batting collapse highlighted the lack of middle-order resilience. To stay alive in the Pakistan vs Afghanistan tri-nation series, they must focus on consistency and avoid throwing away strong starts. With stars like Rashid Khan and Gurbaz in their ranks, Afghanistan still has the firepower to bounce back.
The opening clash of the Pakistan vs Afghanistan tri-nation series was a showcase of Pakistan’s depth and resilience. Salman Ali Agha’s captain’s knock silenced critics, Mohammad Nawaz delivered a complete all-round performance, and Haris Rauf’s lethal bowling ensured a comprehensive win.
As the series progresses, Pakistan will look to carry this momentum forward, while Afghanistan will aim to recover from a costly collapse. For fans, the tri-nation series promises more high-voltage encounters, and if the opening match is any indication, cricket lovers are in for a thrilling ride.
