Sharjah, August 28, 2025 – The cricketing spotlight turns to the UAE as Pakistan and Afghanistan gear up for the opening clash of the much-anticipated T20I tri-series on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
The contest not only launches the tri-series but also serves as a crucial prelude to the Asia Cup, giving both teams a chance to fine-tune their squads and strategies in competitive conditions.
The T20I tri-series, also featuring Sri Lanka, is being closely watched by analysts and fans alike. For Pakistan, the absence of star batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan offers an opportunity to experiment with new combinations. Head coach Mike Hesson has been working with a refreshed unit under the leadership of Salman Agha, aiming for an aggressive batting approach from the outset. Sahibzada Farhan, in excellent form with three Player of the Match awards in his last six T20I outings, is expected to open alongside Saim Ayub. Fakhar Zaman’s return from a hamstring injury further strengthens the batting order.
On the bowling front, Pakistan will rely on Shaheen Afridi to lead a dynamic attack supported by Mohammad Wasim. Spinners Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem add tactical depth, while Salman Mirza, who topped the wicket charts in the recent Bangladesh series, enhances the squad’s versatility. The team has conducted intense practice sessions in Lahore and Dubai to embed a fearless batting philosophy and adaptable bowling strategy.
Afghanistan, meanwhile, have prepared through a training camp in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing fitness, fielding, and match readiness. Fielding coach John Mooney has been tasked with improving their defensive discipline, while Rashid Khan leads a spin-heavy bowling lineup featuring Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and all-rounder Mohammad Nabi. The squad also includes newcomer Allah Mohammad, who may make his T20I debut. With Ibrahim Zadran returning to stabilize the top order and Rahmanullah Gurbaz providing explosive starts, Afghanistan aims to strike the right balance between attack and caution.
Historically, matches between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Sharjah have been low-scoring, with totals often failing to cross 140. This trend underscores the role of spin and controlled pace in determining outcomes. Afghanistan holds a slight edge, having won three of their last five T20I encounters, including a 2–1 bilateral series win in March 2023.
The tri-series adopts a round-robin format, with each team playing the others twice before the final on September 7, 2025. Afghanistan faces a tight schedule, with their Asia Cup opener against Hong Kong slated for September 9, just two days after a potential tri-series final. Pakistan, meanwhile, begins its Asia Cup campaign on September 12.
Beyond the numbers, this match carries significance for both sides as they seek rhythm, confidence, and tactical clarity before the Asia Cup. Can Pakistan’s bold new approach under Hesson yield immediate dividends? Or will Afghanistan’s proven spin arsenal take control once again? Sharjah awaits the answers.