Afghanistan Times
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KABUL — Afghanistan secured a statement win ahead of the Asia Cup, beating Pakistan by 18 runs in their tri-series clash in the United Arab Emirates.
Batting first, Ibrahim Zadran (65) and Sediqullah Atal (64) put on a commanding 113-run partnership that lifted Afghanistan to 169-5, despite Faheem Ashraf’s late burst of four wickets.
In reply, Pakistan stumbled early as Fazalhaq Farooqi struck twice inside the powerplay before Afghanistan’s spin trio took control. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad shared six wickets, reducing Pakistan to 151-9.
Haris Rauf offered late resistance with an unbeaten 34 from just 16 balls, but the damage had been done as Afghanistan’s bowlers maintained tight control.
The victory leaves both Afghanistan and Pakistan level on four points after three games, while hosts UAE remain winless. The tri-series is part of the build-up to the 2025 Asia Cup, which begins September 9, with India entering as defending champions.
