Afghanistan vs Pakistan UAE T20I Tri-Series 2025: 1st T20I, Full Scorecard, Live Score, Stats
Cricket in the subcontinent countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan is more than just a game because they don’t just provide a spectacle that unites millions,but also carry stories of rivalry, passion, and pride. On 25th August 2025, fans will witness yet another memorable match when Afghanistan faces Pakistan in the opening match of the UAE T20I Tri-Series, with Sharjah Cricket Stadium serving as the field. The tournament also includes the host nation, UAE, but all eyes are locked on this unpredictable match.
Afghanistan’s fearless spin-powered attack and Pakistan’s balanced unit with explosive batters and lethal pacers.
The Significance of the UAE T20I Tri-Series
Tri-series tournaments have always carried a special charm in cricket. Unlike bilateral contests, a tri-series ensures variety, unpredictability, and fierce competition. For Pakistan and Afghanistan, this series is more than just preparation—it is a chance to build momentum ahead of bigger international assignments, including the upcoming ICC events.
For Afghanistan, this is about proving consistency against stronger oppositions. Over the years, they’ve moved from being underdogs to serious contenders, particularly in T20 cricket where they’ve upset giants with their fearless brand of cricket.
For Pakistan, this series is about fine-tuning their squad balance.
Team Previews
Afghanistan: The Fire Fighters
Afghanistan’s biggest weapon continues to be their world-class spin department. Rashid Khan, if fit and available, will once again lead from the front, supported by Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad, thus creating a spin trio that can trouble any batting order.
On the batting front, the likes of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran are tasked with providing fast starts, while Najibullah Zadran and Mohammad Nabi hold the middle order together. Afghanistan’s challenge is to convert those explosive cameos into consistent match-winning totals.
Pakistan: The Green Giants
Pakistan enters as the more experienced side, boasting a mix of youth and established stars. Their pace battery led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, along with Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, promises hostile spells under Sharjah’s floodlights. With spin options in Shadab Khan and Usama Mir, Pakistan also has the tools to counter Afghanistan’s aggressive approach.
Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are Pakistan’s most dependable batters, whereas Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, work passionately as the middle order and for speeding up the game youngsters will take the lead.
Key Battles to Watch
- Rashid Khan vs Babar Azam
The Afghanistan talisman against Pakistan’s modern great. Babar’s ability to strike against Rashid will decide Pakistan’s further game. - Shaheen Afridi vs Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Shaheen’s fiery new-ball spells against Gurbaz’s aggressiveness could set the tone for Afghanistan’s innings. - Middle-Order Pressure Test
Afghanistan’s middle order has often struggled under the pressure to make a high scoreboard. Pakistan will look to use their pace and spin combinations.
Sharjah – A Historic Venue
It is a memorable venue with its shorter boundaries and slower pitch, T20 games here often produce thrilling contests. For Afghanistan, Sharjah feels like a home ground, given their frequent use of UAE as a base. For Pakistan too, Sharjah holds nostalgia, with countless memorable matches played here during the 80s and 90s.
The atmosphere under the lights, combined with passionate Afghan and Pakistani fans in the stands, will ensure that this contest feels nothing short of a mini-final.
What This Match Means for the Series
A win here gives either team momentum and a psychological edge. For Afghanistan, it will boost confidence against a full-strength Pakistan. For Pakistan, victory ensures they avoid early slip-ups and solidify their favorite tag.
The UAE team, meanwhile, will keenly observe, learning from the intensity, before they enter the fray.
Predicted Outcome
While both teams are evenly matched in certain areas, Pakistan starts as the slight favorite due to their greater depth in batting and more balanced attack. Afghanistan’s spinners, however, can tilt the game in their favor if they get early breakthroughs. Expect a close contest, but Pakistan’s experience might just see them through in the end.
Conclusion
Afghanistan vs Pakistan clash at Sharjah on 25th August 2025 is not just the opening game of the UAE T20I Tri-Series. For fans, it’s an unmissable night of cricket where every ball carries weight, and every over could shift the game’s direction.
So, mark your calendars and get ready to witness cricketing fireworks under the Sharjah floodlights. Whether you cheer for the blue of Afghanistan or the green of Pakistan, one thing is certain: this tri-series is off to a thrilling start.
FAQs
Q1. When is the Afghanistan vs Pakistan match scheduled?
The first match of the UAE T20I Tri-Series between Afghanistan and Pakistan will be played on 25th August 2025 (Monday) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, starting in the evening under lights.
Q2. Which teams are part of the UAE T20I Tri-Series 2025?
The teams which are part of the UAE are Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE itself. Each team will face the others in a round-robin format, followed by the final.
Q3.Who are the key players to watch in Afghanistan vs Pakistan?
For Afghanistan, stars like Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mohammad Nabi will be crucial. Pakistan will rely on Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan to make an impact in the opening clash.
Q4. Why is Sharjah a special venue for Afghanistan vs Pakistan matches?
Sharjah holds historical importance in Asian cricket and often feels like a “home away from home” for both teams. Its passionate fan base, short boundaries, and slow pitches make it an exciting venue for high-intensity T20 clashes.
Q5. Where can fans watch the Afghanistan vs Pakistan T20I live?
The match will be broadcast on major sports networks (depending on region) and also streamed live on popular OTT platforms. Fans can also follow live score updates on sites like ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, and ICC’s official website.
