Afghanistan Stun Pakistan with 18-Run Victory in Sharjah Ahead of Asia Cup 2025

Afghanistan delivered a commanding statement before the Asia Cup 2025, defeating Pakistan by 18 runs in the fourth T20I of the Tri-Series at Sharjah. The win wasn’t just another match result; it was a showcase of composure, teamwork, and tactical brilliance that is sure to send ripples across the cricketing world.

Afghanistan’s Batting Backbone

After being asked to bat first, Afghanistan put on a clinical batting display anchored by their top order. Ibrahim Zadran set the tone with a well-constructed 65 off 45 balls, mixing calm rotation of strike with timely aggression. Alongside him, opener Sediqullah Atal played a career-defining knock of 64 runs from 45 deliveries.

The two batters stitched together a 113-run partnership that stabilized Afghanistan’s innings and provided the perfect platform for the middle order. Although Pakistan struck late to slow the scoring rate, Afghanistan managed to post a competitive 169 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs.

Pakistan’s Response and Early Sparks

Chasing 170, Pakistan needed a solid start, but their innings never found rhythm. Fakhar Zaman looked promising with 25 runs, but his dismissal triggered instability. Skipper Sahibzada Farhan and others struggled to build partnerships as Afghanistan’s bowlers tightened their grip on the game.

Haris Rauf’s fighting 34 kept faint hopes alive, but Pakistan’s middle order faltered under pressure. Regular wickets meant that the required run rate climbed steeply, leaving Pakistan with little room for recovery.

Spin Domination Steals the Show

The highlight of the evening was Afghanistan’s spin attack. Rashid Khan led from the front, bringing his usual craft and control to choke the opposition. Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi supported him perfectly, and the young left-arm spinner Noor Ahmad impressed with his fearless bowling in the middle overs.

Together, this spin trio dismantled Pakistan’s chase by picking crucial wickets and preventing boundaries. Their combined effort restricted Pakistan to 151 for 9, sealing an emphatic 18-run win.

Faheem Ashraf’s Brief Resistance

On the bowling front for Pakistan, Faheem Ashraf was the standout performer. His four wickets showcased grit and gave Pakistan brief moments of hope. However, his efforts were overshadowed by the lack of support from both batters and fellow bowlers at critical junctures.

Key Turning Point

The turning point of the match came in the middle overs of Pakistan’s chase. Rashid Khan’s sharp bowling, coupled with a run-out he orchestrated, broke Pakistan’s backbone. Losing Salman Ali Agha through that dismissal further dented Pakistan’s chances and left them playing catch-up until the very end.

What This Means for Both Teams

For Afghanistan, this victory is more than just two points in a Tri-Series. It is a confidence booster and a statement of their growing dominance in T20 cricket. With their top order firing and their spin department looking sharper than ever, they enter the Asia Cup with serious momentum.

For Pakistan, the result raises questions about their middle-order stability and ability to handle quality spin. If they are to compete strongly in the Asia Cup, they must address their batting collapses and find a way to rotate strike effectively against spin-heavy teams.

Final Word

Sharjah once again witnessed a gripping contest, and Afghanistan walked away deserving winners. Their fearless batting, combined with a deadly spin attack, proved too good for Pakistan. As the Asia Cup edges closer, Afghanistan’s rise as a serious contender cannot be ignored, while Pakistan will need to regroup quickly to avoid similar stumbles on bigger stages.