Full Highlights | Afghanistan vs Pakistan | T20I Tri Nation Series 2025 | Match 1 | ECB | M3Q1K
Pakistan Begin on a High: A Commanding 39-Run Victory
Pakistan launched their campaign with resounding authority, defeating Afghanistan by 39 runs in the first match of the UAE Tri-Nation Series at Sharjah. The Times of IndiaThe Indian ExpressHindustan Times
Winning the Toss and Early Wobbles
Pakistan, winning the toss under captain Salman Ali Agha, elected to bat first. They quickly found themselves in trouble, slipping to 83/4, as Afghanistan’s bowlers, particularly fareed Ahmad Malik, seized early control. The Indian ExpressNDTV SportsHindustan Times
Captain’s Rescue: Salman Ali Agha’s Composed Fifty
Rescued from trouble by his captain, Pakistan’s innings pivoted on a vital 53 off 36 balls* by Salman Ali Agha, which included 3 fours and 3 sixes. His partnership with Mohammad Nawaz added critical momentum, helping Pakistan post a competitive 182/7 in their 20 overs. NDTV SportsHindustan TimesBusiness StandardThe Indian Express
Afghanistan’s Collapse: Steep Fall in the Chase
Chasing 183, Afghanistan looked promising at 92/2, but the match turned dramatically as they collapsed to 97/7 within just 17 balls. Haris Rauf and Sufiyan Muqeem were lethal, sharing key wickets in that crucial period. The Indian ExpressHindustan Times
Afghanistan’s chase ended at 143 all out in 19.5 overs—a testament to Pakistan’s disciplined bowling under pressure. The Indian ExpressNDTV SportsThe Times of India
Bright Spot for Afghanistan: Rashid’s Late Blitz
In a valiant effort to keep their failing chase alive, Afghanistan’s captain Rashid Khan delivered a fiery 39 off 16 balls, smashing five sixes and a boundary. Despite this late surge, his heroics weren’t enough to alter the outcome. Hindustan Times
Haris Rauf’s Game-Changing Spell
The star of the bowling show, Haris Rauf, ripped through Afghanistan’s fragile middle order, claiming four wickets and playing a pivotal role in crushing their chase. Pakistan’s bowlers displayed intensity and precision, stifling Afghan hopes with clinical execution. The Times of IndiaHindustan Times
Match Summary Table
| Team | Innings | Total | Crucial Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | Batting first | 182/7 (20 overs) | Salman Ali Agha’s 53*, crucial partnerships after collapse |
| Afghanistan | Chasing (183 target) | 143 all out | Rashid Khan’s 39 off 16 (brilliant but belated resistance) |
| Pakistan Bowlers | – | – | Haris Rauf’s 4 wickets, replaced crucial middle-order stability |
In-Depth Narrative & Analysis
Pakistan’s innings looked shaky early on, losing half their side for under 100. Agha, with his composed and paced knock, steadied the ship brilliantly. His ability to steady the innings, then accelerate, showcased leadership under pressure.
2. Momentum Shift Through Bowling Brilliance
Haris Rauf reasserted Pakistan’s dominance with a devastating spell, decimating Afghanistan’s spine in one explosive burst. This pivotal phase shifted the momentum irreversibly in Pakistan’s favor.
3. Rashid’s Fightback Falls Short
Rashid Khan, in an inspired cameo, tried to turn the tide with a mauling assault. Five sixes in a cameo of just 16 balls reflected his intent and brilliance. However, his resistance came too late, as the well had already dried up.
4. Strategic Depth and Match Readiness
Pakistan’s handling of this match reflected preparation for bigger challenges ahead. Their timely execution with both bat and ball, plus Agha’s composed leadership, highlighted strategic clarity—an encouraging sign for the upcoming Asia Cup. The Times of IndiaWikipedia
The Road Ahead
This emphatic start sets Pakistan on a confident path in the Tri-Nation Series. They will next face UAE, eyeing to maintain momentum and depth in squad utilization. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly, bolster resilience in the middle order, and fine-tune their execution if they hope to stay competitive in the series.
In summary, Match 1 of the 2025 UAE T20I Tri-Nation Series served a potent reminder of the importance of middle-order rescue acts and clinical bursting spells. Pakistan ticked both boxes—Salman Ali Agha’s calm fifty and Haris Rauf’s fiery penetration crafted a perfect script for a memorable start. Let me know if you’d like a deeper player-by-player analysis, series implications, or plans for upcoming fixtures!
