T20 Action: Pakistan vs Afghanistan at Sharjah – What Happened?

If you missed the first T20I of the UAE Tri‑Series, you’re in for a quick catch‑up. Pakistan rolled out a solid 183‑run total, then watched Afghanistan tumble to 144 in the chase. The game was full of big hits, tight bowling, and a few nerves. Let’s break down the key moments so you can feel like you were right there in the stands.

Key Moments of the Match

Opening the innings, Salman Ali Agha steadied Pakistan with a calm half‑century. He and Mohammad Nawaz stitched together a 50‑run partnership that set the tone. After Agha’s 55, the middle order kept the momentum, especially when Haris Rauf and Sufiyan Muqeem blew through Afghanistan’s middle order with a flurry of wickets. The turning point came in the 16th over when Afghanistan lost five wickets for just four runs – a collapse that swung the match decisively in Pakistan’s favour.

What This Means for the Teams

For Pakistan, the win is a confidence booster ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. It shows their top order can anchor the innings while the bowlers finish strong. The performance also puts Salman Ali Agha in the spotlight as a reliable run‑maker in pressure games. Afghanistan, on the other hand, will need to regroup. Their early start was promising, but the middle‑order collapse exposed a vulnerability that opponents can exploit. Going forward, they’ll have to tighten their batting strategy and perhaps give more responsibility to the younger guns.

Fans love T20 cricket for its fast‑paced drama, and this match delivered in spades. From the opening overs to the final wicket, there was plenty to talk about. Whether you’re a die‑hard follower of Pakistani cricket or an Afghan supporter hoping for a bounce‑back, the game offered lessons, excitement, and a clear story heading into the next fixture of the series.

So, what’s next? Pakistan will look to keep the pressure on, while Afghanistan aims to correct the missteps. Keep an eye on the upcoming matches – the tri‑series is shaping up to be a thrilling ride, and every T20 game could shift the balance. Stay tuned for more updates, score breakdowns, and behind‑the‑scenes insights right here.