SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates: Afghanistan and hosts United Arab Emirates meet today (Monday) in the third match of the T20I Tri-Series, with both sides seeking their first win after defeats to Pakistan.
The match at Sharjah Cricket Stadium is a virtual eliminator, with the loser likely to fall out of contention for a place in the final.
This tri-series is more than just a tournament, it’s a crucial stepping stone toward the 2025 Asia Cup, offering Afghanistan, Pakistan, and UAE the chance to fine-tune combinations and assess bench strength.
Now, with Pakistan holding the early advantage, the pressure is squarely on Afghanistan and the UAE to turn things around.
Afghanistan: Spin to Win
Afghanistan enter the contest looking to bounce back from their loss to Pakistan. While they showcased glimpses of promise, particularly with the ball – their batting remains a concern.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz provided an aggressive start in the previous outing, but the team failed to convert that momentum into a meaningful total.
With Ibrahim Zadran and Karim Janat yet to find their rhythm, the Afghan batting unit will need to step up and deliver more partnerships to support their explosive top-order.
The real strength for Afghanistan, however, lies in their world-class spin arsenal. Led by captain Rashid Khan, the spin trio, which also includes Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad, will be key on a Sharjah pitch known to assist turn.
Mujeeb’s miserly spell against Pakistan was a reminder of his match-controlling ability, and Noor Ahmad’s variety adds another layer of threat.
Afghanistan’s pace duo, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Fareed Ahmad Malik, will play a critical role in setting the tone with the new ball.
Early wickets could put the UAE on the back foot, opening the door for the spinners to tighten the screws.
UAE: Home Ground, High Hopes
For the hosts, the first match was a tale of spirited resistance. Chasing a steep target against Pakistan, the UAE’s batting showed glimpses of resilience but lacked the firepower to complete the job.
Now, with home support behind them, they will be determined to bounce back and notch their first win of the series.
Captain Muhammad Waseem, a proven performer in this format, will be key to anchoring the innings. Alongside him, Alishan Sharafu and Asif Khan bring the firepower needed to counter Afghanistan’s spin threat.
Young talents like Ethan D’Souza and wicketkeeper Rahul Chopra could also play pivotal roles in stabilizing the middle order.
On the bowling front, the UAE will rely on Junaid Siddique and Muhammad Jawadullah to strike early and apply pressure.
The support from all-rounders like Dhruv Parashar and Sagheer Khan could prove vital in containing Afghanistan’s big hitters.
The Stakes
With Pakistan already holding a win over both sides, Tuesday’s fixture becomes a virtual eliminator, the losing team could see its hopes of reaching the final dashed.
While Afghanistan enter as favorites, thanks to their T20 pedigree and spin depth, the UAE’s home advantage and fighting spirit make them a dangerous opponent capable of springing an upset.
Expect a tense, tactical battle under the lights in Sharjah, one that could define the trajectory of both teams in this tri-series and set the tone for their Asia Cup campaigns.
Afghanistan Squad
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Seddiqullah Atal, Darwish Rasuli, Karim Janat, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (capt), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Farid Ahmad Malik, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Noor Ahmad, AM Gajanfar, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Mohammad Ishaq, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Gulbadin Naib.
United Arab Emirates Squad
Muhammad Zohaib, Muhammad Waseem (capt), Ethan D’Souza, Alishan Sharafu, Rahul Chopra (wk), Asif Khan, Dhruv Parashar, Sagheer Khan, Haider Ali, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah, Muhammad Rohid Khan, Harshit Kaushik, Aryansh Sharma, Muhammad Farooq.
