Sharjah Set for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and UAE Tri-Series Ahead of Asia Cup

Sharjah will once again be in the cricketing spotlight as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE meet in a tri-nation T20I series starting Friday. The tournament, designed as a dress rehearsal for next month’s Asia Cup, promises intrigue both on and off the field.

Pakistan arrives with questions over its balance. With Mike Hesson in charge, the batting has been stretched with more of an all-rounder to reduce the number of specialist bowlers, who have remained on the bench. That aggressive strategy proved to be successful in high-scoring games against Bangladesh and West Indies, but the low wickets in the UAE can reveal its vulnerable side. Pakistan may be playing that dice again or may go back to an orthodox arrangement, which otherwise may influence their performance not only in this tournament but also at the Asia Cup.

Afghanistan, on the other side of the series, comes into it with the same flair, but also a level of mystery. Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Noor Ahmad strike fear in their spin department, and their batting is more aggressive than ever. However, the side has not contested a T20I throughout the year, which casts doubt on rhythm and unity. The series will allow them to rehearse before they encounter a difficult tournament, the Asia Cup 2025.

For hosts UAE, this is more than a warm-up. With Muhammad Waseem leading from the front and Asif Khan providing hitting power, they hope to spring a surprise. Their spinners, led by Haider Ali, will be key if they are to challenge the bigger sides.

Sharjah is gearing up for a thrilling tri-series right before the Asia Cup. Catch every ball of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE in action on tapmad.