Afghanistan Stun Pakistan by 18 Runs in T20 Tri-Series

Afghanistan continued their dream run in the T20 tri-series with a stunning 18-run victory over Pakistan on Tuesday. Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal led the charge with back-to-back half-centuries, while the spin trio of Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad choked Pakistan’s batting lineup with six crucial wickets.

Also Read: Secret of Team India's 'HAT', It can become a guarantee of victory in Asia Cup

Zadran & Atal Shine

Ibrahim Zadran (65) and Sediqullah Atal (64) carried forward their golden form after shining against UAE. The duo stitched a powerful 113-run stand, guiding Afghanistan to 169/5 after winning the toss and electing to bat. Their knocks laid the perfect platform as Afghanistan posted yet another defendable total in this series.

Pakistan’s Batting Collapse

Pakistan faltered against quality spin despite a brief late fight. At one stage, they were 111 for 9 in 17 overs, thanks to Afghanistan’s bowlers squeezing the middle order. No.10 batter Mohammad Haris provided some fireworks with 34 not out from 16 balls, but it wasn’t enough to rescue Pakistan.

Farooqi’s Early Strikes

Fast bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi set the tone for Afghanistan’s win. He dismissed Saim Ayub with his very first ball for a duck and then clean bowled Sahibzada Farhan after he had struck two sixes. His early breakthroughs left Pakistan under pressure right from the powerplay.

Spin Magic Seals Win

Afghanistan’s spinners took complete control as Fakhar Zaman fell for 25, caught off Nabi’s bowling. Rashid Khan’s brilliant run out of Salman Ali Agha and two more wickets further deepened Pakistan’s woes. Young spinner Noor Ahmad made an instant impact in his first game, removing Hasan Nawaz and clean bowling Faheem Ashraf with his final delivery, sealing Afghanistan’s famous 18-run win.

Also Read: Pat Cummins Injured, to Miss White-Ball Series Against New Zealand and India