Afghanistan Secures Strong Win Against UAE in T20I Tri-Series
Afghanistan made a remarkable comeback in the T20I tri-series held in Sharjah, earning a significant 38-run victory over the United Arab Emirates on Sunday. This win was particularly special for team captain Rashid Khan, who became the all-time leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals, surpassing New Zealand cricketer Tim Southee with 165 wickets to his name.
Batting first, Afghanistan set a challenging target of 188 runs for the UAE. Despite a quick dismissal of opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz for just 7 runs, Sediqullah Atal played a steady innings, scoring 54 runs off 40 balls, featuring four boundaries and three sixes.
Ibrahim Zadran then took charge, scoring a quick-fire 63 runs from 40 balls, achieving a strike rate of 157.50. In the final overs, Azmatullah Omarzai (20 off 12 balls) and Karim Janat (23 off 10 balls) contributed to a late surge, pushing Afghanistan’s total past 180 with their explosive batting.
In reply, UAE began strongly, with their captain Muhammad Waseem scoring a rapid 67 off just 37 balls, supported by wicketkeeper Rahul Chopra, who finished with an unbeaten 52 off 35 deliveries. However, the UAE batsmen struggled against Afghanistan’s disciplined bowling attack.
Rashid Khan emerged as the hero once again, claiming three wickets for just 21 runs in his four overs, including key dismissals of Ethan D’Souza, Asif Khan, and Dhruv Parashar. His impressive performance helped turn the game in Afghanistan’s favor, complemented by Sharafuddin Ashraf’s 3 wickets for 24 runs, while Mohammad Nabi also contributed with one wicket.
Ultimately, the UAE managed to score 150 runs for the loss of 8 wickets, falling short of the target despite Waseem’s valiant effort. This victory not only earned Afghanistan their first points in the series but also lifted their spirits after their earlier loss to Pakistan.
Match Summary:
- Afghanistan: 188/4 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 63, Sediqullah Atal 54)
- UAE: 150/8 in 20 overs (Muhammad Waseem 67, Rahul Chopra 52*)
- Result: Afghanistan won by 38 runs.
