Afghanistan Secures Second Victory in Tri-Nation Series

SHARJAH: Afghanistan achieved their second triumph in the ongoing T20I tri-nation series, defeating Pakistan by a margin of 30 runs in the fourth match held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Despite this victory, Afghanistan holds the second position in the points standings. With two wins and a total of four points, their net run rate has significantly improved from -0.025 to 0.283.

Pakistan, having secured two victories out of three matches, maintains its lead in the standings with four points, although their net run rate has decreased from 1.750 to 0.867.

The UAE remains at the bottom of the table, still seeking their first win with a net run rate of -1.725.

After electing to bat first, Afghanistan set a competitive total of 169/5 in their allotted 20 overs, largely due to a remarkable 113-run partnership for the second wicket between Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal.

Pakistan made an early breakthrough when Saim Ayub dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz for just 8 runs in the second over, leaving Afghanistan at 10/1. However, Zadran and Atal demonstrated resilience, rebuilding with a blend of caution and aggression.

The crucial partnership was terminated in the 16th over when Faheem Ashraf caught Atal at long-on. The left-handed Atal contributed a fluent 64 off 45 deliveries, featuring three boundaries and three sixes.

Faheem Ashraf stood out as Pakistan’s most successful bowler, achieving a career-best figure of 4/27, while Saim Ayub supported with one wicket.

In response, Pakistan struggled in their chase and were limited to 151/9. Haris Rauf provided some late excitement with an unbeaten 34 off 16 balls, hitting four sixes at an impressive strike rate of 212.50.

Fakhar Zaman (25), captain Salman Ali Agha (20), and Sahibzada Farhan (18) showed some resistance, but they were unable to guide their team to victory.

Afghanistan’s bowling attack displayed a collective effort, with Fazalhaq Farooqi, captain Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad each claiming two wickets.