Match Overview Afghanistan vs Pakistan – UAE T20I Tri-Series 2025
The United Arab Emirates T20I Tri-Series 2025 kicks off with a blockbuster as Afghanistan take on Pakistan in the 1st Match at Sharjah on August 29, 2025. Both sides bring contrasting strengths—Afghanistan with world-class spin and Pakistan with explosive batting depth—making this opener a mouth-watering clash under the Sharjah lights.
Recent Form
- Afghanistan – W, L, L, W, W: Strong finish in recent outings with consistency in spin-dominated conditions.
- Pakistan – L, W, W, L, W: A mixed bag, but still capable of producing big performances in crunch games.
Players to Watch – Afghanistan (AFG)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – Explosive at the top, with 231 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 110. His powerplay aggression sets the tone.
- Azmatullah Omarzai – A utility all-rounder with 181 runs and useful medium pace.
- Rashid Khan – Afghanistan’s superstar spinner, with 21 wickets in 10 games at an economy of 6.49. A match-winner in Sharjah’s spin-friendly conditions.
- Naveen-ul-Haq – Death-overs specialist, with 19 wickets in 10 matches, striking every 11.5 balls.
Players to Watch – Pakistan (PAK)
- Hasan Nawaz – The exciting young batter has 233 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 167.62, a fearless striker in the middle order.
- Sahibzada Farhan – Consistent top-order batter with 229 runs in 6 matches, averaging 38.17 at 144.93 SR.
- Mohammad Nawaz – Effective left-arm spinner with 10 wickets in 6 games at an economy of just 6.06.
- Hasan Ali – Experienced seamer with 9 wickets in 5 matches, though slightly expensive, still a threat with new and old ball.
Head-to-Head Record Afghanistan vs Pakistan – UAE T20I Tri-Series 2025
The rivalry has intensified in recent years, with Afghanistan making major strides:
- Oct 2023 – Afghanistan won by 4 wickets.
- Mar 2023 – Pakistan won by 66 runs.
- Mar 2023 – Afghanistan won by 7 wickets.
- Mar 2023 – Afghanistan won by 6 wickets.
- Sep 2022 – Pakistan won by 1 wicket in a thriller.
Summary: Last 5 → Afghanistan 3 wins, Pakistan 2 wins. Sharjah conditions often suit Afghan spinners, giving them a slight edge.
Match Prediction Afghanistan vs Pakistan – UAE T20I Tri-Series 2025
Expect a close battle. If Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq dominate the middle and death overs, Afghanistan could extend their recent dominance. However, Pakistan’s top order, led by Farhan and Nawaz, is explosive enough to tilt the balance. Prediction: A tight game, with spin likely to decide the winner.