By Syeda Rubab 
Afghanistan bounce back in style
Afghanistan finally got their campaign on track in the UAE Tri-Series 2025, registering a 38-run win over hosts United Arab Emirates in Sharjah. It was a night when stars aligned for Rashid Khan, who not only ripped through the middle order with 3 for 21 but also became the highest wicket-taker in men’s T20I cricket.
With the bat, half-centuries from Ibrahim Zadran (63 off 40) and Sediqullah Atal (54 off 40) set the foundation. A late flourish from Karim Janat (23 off 10)* and Azmatullah Omarzai (20 off 12)* powered Afghanistan to a strong 188/4.
UAE’s fight led by Waseem
In pursuit of 189, UAE once again leaned on their talismanic skipper Muhammad Waseem, who produced a sparkling 67 off 37 balls. His aggressive strokeplay kept the hosts above the asking rate during the powerplay. However, once he miscued Sharafuddin Ashraf, UAE’s chase quickly lost momentum.
The collapse was sharp — from a promising 90/2 in the 10th over to 150/8 at the end. Rahul Chopra’s unbeaten 52 added respectability, but the target was always slipping out of reach once Rashid dismantled their middle order.
Turning points
- Early setback: Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell cheaply, but Zadran and Atal counterpunched with an 84-run stand.
- Death overs damage: 49 runs came off the last three overs, including Janat’s 22-run assault on Muhammad Rohid.
- Waseem’s dismissal: His departure at 67 swung the game decisively.
- Rashid’s spell: Three wickets in the middle overs suffocated UAE’s fightback.
- Sharafuddin Ashraf’s support: With 3 for 24, he ensured pressure never eased from the other end.
Brief Scores
Afghanistan 188/4 (20 overs): Ibrahim Zadran 63 (40), Sediqullah Atal 54 (40), Karim Janat 23* (10); Saghir Khan 2/52
UAE 150/8 (20 overs): Muhammad Waseem 67 (37), Rahul Chopra 52* (35); Rashid Khan 3/21, Sharafuddin Ashraf 3/24
Result: Afghanistan won by 38 runs
Player of the Match: Sharafuddin Ashraf (3/24)
Himadullah Sohoo