With an emphatic victory over Japan in the Asia-EAP Qualifier tournament, UAE has secured a final spot in the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026. They defeated Japan by eight wickets to book a confirmed place in next year&rsquo;s tournament. Besides UAE, Nepal and Oman have also qualified for the tournament that is scheduled in India and Sri Lanka next year.

Coming out to bat, Japan managed to score only 117 runs in the first. Their batting never looked in control throughout the innings, as Haider Ali and other UAE bowlers kept exposing their technical problems by taking regular wickets. Haider Ali remained the star bowler for the UAE, as he picked 3 wickets while giving away just 20 runs in the first innings.

The chase of 117 proved relatively easy for the UAE in the second innings. The opening duo of Alishan Sharafu and Muhammad Waseem made things easy for the UAE by building a strong partnership at the top. Due to this, UAE chased the target easily while losing just 2 wickets. With this win, they booked their spot in the next year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup alongside Nepal and Oman from Asia.

Apart from event hosts India and Sri Lanka, the top seven teams from the 2024 T20 World Cup have automatically qualified for the mega tournament. These teams include Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, South Africa, United States of America and West Indies.

The other three teams that have also qualified for the tournament include New Zealand, Pakistan and Ireland. These teams didn&rsquo;t have a great outing in last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup, however, they still managed to qualify for next year&rsquo;s tournament based on their position in the global T20I rankings.

UAE has secured a confirmed spot for 2026 T20 World Cup. They defeated Japan in a grand fashion to book the mega-tournament spot.

UAE Complete Lineup for 2026 T20 World Cup

The fusion of Indian and Pakistani players at the heart of UAE cricket is remarkable. It is a great example of how rivals can still be friends if the theatrics of politics is eradicated. Everyone in South Asia knows that India and Pakistan are at a crossroads only due to petty politics. If it is kept aside, peace and harmony can prevail among the people. Emirates cricket is a prime example of that, as it consists of many players who have roots in both countries.

It is safe to say that UAE cricket is heavily influenced by the blend of Indian and Pakistani players. However, the surprising thing is that they have no rivalry with each other. In fact, these players have grown up like a family and have achieved so much with each other. Many of them are now playing at the international level by embracing harmony. They pay zero attention to the politics between the two countries, as they know it only serves a particular section of people.

This is the reality of South Asia that it is divided only on the basis of politics. The people living in this region want to interact with each other, as they hope for a better future where things can go back to normal.

The UAE cricket team is a prime example of that. Players like Junaid Siddique and Simranjeet Singh exhibit how a Pakistani and an Indian can live with each other in harmony. They have not allowed the recent tensions between India and Pakistan to spill over into their relations. Both players have participated in this year&rsquo;s Asia Cup. They wore the colors of the UAE, showcasing a clear brotherhood in the team.

The ace pacemen of the UAE, Junaid Siddique, hails from Multan, Pakistan. He made his debut as a UAE cricketer in October 2019. Since then, he has represented UAE in various international series and tournaments. He is currently leading the pace attack of the team, as his figures in the ACC Men&rsquo;s Asia Cup 2025 are quite impressive.

He picked up a four-wicket haul against Oman in the Group A clash. Then, coming into the big game against Pakistan, he once again made his presence felt by marking the remarkable figures of 4-0-18-4. His bowling in the Powerplay was especially impressive, as he took the early wickets of Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan in the first two overs.

Now, coming to the story of Simranjeet Singh, he is yet another inspiring cricketer hailing from Ludhiana, India. He always wanted to represent India, but somehow, his luck took a turn, giving him a chance in UAE cricket. Simranjeet also let everyone know how skillful he is in the match against Pakistan. The Ludhiana-born cricketer exposed the weaknesses of the current Pakistani batting lineup. He finished the match with great figures of 3 for 26, including the prized wicket of Fakhar Zaman.

Players like Muhammad Waseem, Rahul Chopra, and Dhruv Parashar also represent the deep blend of Indian and Pakistani players in UAE cricket. They have played plenty of cricket with each other, hence they have grown like a family in the UAE.

&quot;We weren&#39;t talking of that [politics]. We&#39;ve played too much cricket with each other. There&#39;s no Indian or Pakistani. We are playing for the UAE. We play as a family, and live as a family.&quot; said Muhammad Waseem at the post-match press conference.

Thus, the moral of the story is that if politics is kept aside, South Asian people can easily thrive with each other. The people living in this region have loads of talent. The cricketers playing for the UAE let everyone know sports can set aside political differences. Despite hailing from rival countries, they have never allowed the dirt of politics to come into their way. This represents a perfect spirit of sports, which is, unfortunately, currently lacking in some top teams.

The fusion of Indian and Pakistani players in UAE cricket is worth watching. It is a team that represents a great example of the true spirit of the sport.

How India and Pakistan Influences the UAE Cricket

Pakistan&rsquo;s coach Mike Hesson feels confident in his team after the tri-series triumph. He believes this Tri-series win is enough to set Pakistan in momentum.

In the UAE Tri-series final, Pakistan played exceptionally and swept aside <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/pakistan-crushes-afghanistan-to-lift-tri-series-trophy-in-sharjah/1381-2-0">Afghanistan by 75 runs</a> in Sharjah. Mohammad Nawaz completed a hat-trick and a career-best five-wicket haul.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&ldquo;We have beaten Afghanistan in conditions that suited their spin attack, which was a real confidence builder,&rdquo; Hesson said on Monday. &ldquo;Heading into the Asia Cup, this was very important for us.&rdquo;

Since Hesson&rsquo;s appointment as white-ball coach in May, Pakistan have recorded a 3-0 home sweep of Bangladesh, edged West Indies 2-1 in Florida, and lost just once in five tri-series games.&nbsp;

Hesson, who guided New Zealand to the 2015 World Cup final, highlighted the competitive nature of the upcoming tournament. &ldquo;An eight-team Asia Cup is great for Asian cricket. It&rsquo;s a true test, it expands the game in the region, and allows us to see players we don&rsquo;t face often.&rdquo;

Pakistan is in Group A with India, Oman, and the UAE. The biggest clash of the Asia Cup will be on September 14 when India face Pakistan. Hesson stressed focus: &ldquo;The key is not to get distracted by external pressures.&rdquo;&nbsp;

On September 28, the Asia Cup final will take place in Dubai, and the fans are all eager to know which two teams will be in the final.

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson says tri-series win lifts team confidence ahead of Asia Cup, praising Mohammad Nawaz’s standout performance in Sharjah.

Tri-Series Win Sets Pakistan’s Confidence Ahead of Asia Cup, Says Hesson

It is not a matter of a two-match relationship, but the growth of the journey between Mirpur and Dubai. The UAE 2016 was an expanding party that could play fearless cricket, but not as deeply as India. India, however, was a giant that had MS Dhoni as a leader; other stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ruled the field with their own whims.

In 2025, things have shifted. Cricket in the UAE has gotten empowered on its part; it has been more prominent, with improved facilities, and more skilled players too, who have proved their ability to punch bigger than their weight. India still has been a favourite, but without the presence of the Dhoni years, and their young performers will have to prove that they can continue with the tradition.

<h2>What Happened in 2016?</h2>

The 2016 Asia Cup was a one-sided affair. India rolled with tight bowling, restricting the UAE to only 81 runs in 20 overs. India showed a dominant performance by its pace attack, in which Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hardik Pandya dictated with the ball. India had an easy time with the chase using the bat and won the match within 10.1 overs.

In the case of the UAE, their star was Amjad Javed, who performed well in spite of the challenges. But there was too great a distance in rank. The game was a symbol of the dominance of India and the fight by the UAE to gain recognition in the cricketing world.

<h3>Key Players Then vs Now</h3>

2016 Key Players

<ul>
	<li>
	India: Virat Kohli (consistent run machine), Rohit Sharma (power at the top), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (deadly with the ball). 
	&nbsp;
	</li>
	<li>
	UAE: Amjad Javed (all-rounder), Mohammad Naveed (pace), Shaiman Anwar (middle-order stability).
	</li>
</ul>

2025 Key Players

<ul>
	<li>
	India: Suryakumar Yadav (finisher in T20s), Shubman Gill (anchor at the top), Arshdeep Singh (death-over specialist).
	</li>
	<li>
	UAE: Muhammad Waseem (explosive opener), Zahoor Khan (experienced bowler), Vriitya Aravind (young wicketkeeper-batter with flair).
	</li>
</ul>

The comparison highlights how far the UAE has come. They now have match-winners who can turn games, while India leans on its younger generation to step up.

<h2>Who Will Win in Dubai?</h2>

The outcome was never doubtful in 2016; India trampled the UAE without trying. But 2025 has a hint of uncertainty. On paper, India remains the favourite by far, but the UAE is hungry and better skilled in its field of expertise, which makes this conflict more interesting than ever.

Indian bowlers would be put under pressure when Muhammad Waseem shoots early. Conversely, when the top order of India clicks, the game might have a short ending, as it happened in Mirpur. It will be the focus on attacking by Suryakumar Yadav and bowling by Arshdeep Singh, and fearless batting by the UAE team.

The Dubai confrontation is not so much a mismatch but a challenge to the extent to which the UAE has developed internationally in the field of cricket. Although it is still favoured over India, the rise of the UAE means that more people will watch this game with anticipation than ever.

It is not a mere win-or-lose dispute but a way of reconfiguring perception in this Dubai confrontation. The Mirpur memory of 2016 remains fresh, but 2025 would provide the UAE with an opportunity to show that they are no longer underdogs that India has pitied. The fans will be assured of enthusiasm, strength, and some surprises in the Dubai lights.

India vs UAE revisits history as the 2025 Asia Cup clash in Dubai promises fireworks. Can the UAE challenge India this time?

India vs UAE: A Look Back at 2016 and What Awaits in 2025

Pakistan will host its first T20I tri-series in November. The event will feature Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. It will act as a major warm-up for the ICC Men&rsquo;s T20 World Cup next year.

The tri-series will run from 17 to 29 November. The first games will take place in Rawalpindi. The Pindi stadium provides a huge advantage to batters. The Final of the Tri-Series will happen in Lahore. This is another step forward as Pakistan continues to host top teams again.

<h2>Afghanistan&rsquo;s First T20I in Pakistan</h2>

The first game is on 17 November at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan will face Afghanistan. Afghanistan played ODIs in Pakistan before, but this will be their first T20I in the country. Their strong recent form adds more hype to the match.

On 19 November, Afghanistan will meet Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. After that, the action will move to Lahore. The final will be played at Gaddafi Stadium on 29 November.

<h2>Building Momentum for the World Cup</h2>

This T20I tri-series is important preparation for the 2026 ICC Men&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The conditions in Pakistan will help teams test skills on fast tracks and spin-friendly pitches.

Pakistan will rely on its pace attack with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf. Afghanistan will use its star spinners like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Sri Lanka will bring both young players and senior experience to build form before the World Cup.

<h2>PCB Welcomes Tri-series Return</h2>

After the <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/pakistan-beats-afghanistan-tri-series-final-2025/1376-2-0">UAE Tri-series win</a> against Afganistan, the PCB COO Sumair Ahmed Syed welcomed the event. He said, &ldquo;We look forward to hosting Sri Lanka and Afghanistan for Pakistan&rsquo;s first T20I tri-series. This will help all three teams prepare for the World Cup and give fans great cricket in both cities.&rdquo;

<h2>Tri-Series Schedule</h2>

<ul>
	<li>17 Nov &ndash; Pakistan vs Afghanistan, Rawalpindi</li>
	<li>19 Nov &ndash; Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Rawalpindi</li>
	<li>22 Nov &ndash; Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, Lahore</li>
	<li>23 Nov &ndash; Pakistan vs Afghanistan, Lahore</li>
	<li>25 Nov &ndash; Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Lahore</li>
	<li>27 Nov &ndash; Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, Lahore</li>
	<li>29 Nov &ndash; Final, Lahore</li>
</ul>

Pakistan will host its maiden T20I tri-series in November featuring Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. A key series to World Cup warm up.

Pakistan Set to Host Maiden T20I Tri-Series in November

SHARJAH: Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz delivered an indelible display as he was the star in his team&#39;s triumph against Afghanistan by 75 runs in the final of the tri-series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Chase 142, Afghanistan lost. Afghanistan gave in to sustained pressure and were bowled in 15 overs, managing only 66 runs. Nawaz was the night star, and he formulated a bowling magic spell in which he deserved four wickets in just two overs and a spectacular hat-trick. Ultimately, he scored 4/1. A crucial cameo appearance with the bat of some crucial runs propelled Pakistan to 141 /8 in 20 overs.

Speaking after the win, Nawaz explained how he adjusted to the conditions and executed the team&rsquo;s strategy with discipline. 
&ldquo;The plan was simple. We knew 140 was defendable on this pitch, so it was all about sticking to line and length. Once I saw the ball gripping, I varied the pace and kept it tight on the stumps,&rdquo; he said.

He also highlighted his mindset when Pakistan&rsquo;s batting was under pressure. 
&ldquo;At that stage, we needed partnerships more than big shots. It wasn&rsquo;t easy against their spinners, but we backed ourselves to reach 140. Luckily, we managed that, and our bowlers did the rest,&rdquo; he added with a smile.

With both bat and ball, Nawaz&rsquo;s brilliance ensured Pakistan lifted the trophy in style, extending their head-to-head edge over Afghanistan in T20Is.

Mohammad Nawaz stars with bat and ball as Pakistan beat Afghanistan in the tri-series final, sealing the trophy with a stunning all-round display.

Mohammad Nawaz Reflects on Match-Winning Performance in Tri-series Final

Pakistan arrived first, having won the toss and recorded 141/8 in their 20 overs. The side regained its position despite the early loss of Sahibzada Farhan to Fazalhaq Farooqi because of the consistent performance of Fakhar Zaman, 27, and Saim Ayub, 17. Salman Ali Agha contributed a much-needed 24 with two towering sixes, and Faheem Ashraf contributed a late cameo of 15 off only eight balls, taking the total to above 140. Bowlers of Afghanistan continued applying pressure, and Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi continued to hit in regular intervals to limit the scoring.

Afghanistan&#39;s batting order broke down in the face of the attack. In the very first over, Shaheen Afridi struck, removing Rahmanullah Gurbaz by a margin of 5. Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem joined the attack and increased the pressure, but the highlight of the night was Mohammad Nawaz. The left-arm spinner shredded the middle order in Afghanistan through an impressive spell, ripping the hat-trick and ending with four wickets on one run in two overs.

From 22/1, Afghanistan fell to 32/6 and could not recover. Their batting was limited to 66 runs in 15 overs, giving Pakistan a massive 75-run win. Only two batters, Ibrahim Zadran (9) and Sediqullah Atal (13), hit double figures as the others could not cope with the spin attack of Pakistan.

This emphatic win also extended Pakistan&rsquo;s head-to-head lead in T20Is over Afghanistan, with five victories to four in their nine encounters so far.

Pakistan beat Afghanistan by 75 runs in Sharjah to win the tri-series final, powered by Nawaz’s hat-trick and a strong all-round team effort.

Pakistan Beat Afghanistan by 75 Runs to Win Tri-series Final in Sharjah

The final promises fireworks after both sides enjoyed one win each in the group stage. Pakistan began the series on a positive note with a convincing 39-run win over Afghanistan, and this was through the power of explosive batting. But Afghanistan struck back with a vengeance as they won game two by a margin of 19 by maintaining a tight bowling game that evened the playing field.

With the title on the line, both teams have named balanced XIs. Pakistan&rsquo;s lineup includes big hitters like Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub, along with seasoned bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz. Salman Ali Agha will lead the side, while Mohammad Haris takes up wicketkeeping duties.

Afghanistan, led by Rashid Khan, will once again rely on Rahmanullah Gurbaz&rsquo;s aggressive batting and the spin duo of Noor Ahmad and Mohammad Nabi to tilt the contest in their favor. Fazalhaq Farooqi&rsquo;s pace adds another weapon to their bowling arsenal.

<h2>Playing XIs:</h2>

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Karim Janat, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan (c), Mohammad Nabi, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi 
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz

<h2>Head-to-Head Record:</h2>

The two sides have met nine times in T20 internationals, with Pakistan holding a slim advantage of five wins to Afghanistan&rsquo;s four. Today&rsquo;s final could either extend Pakistan&rsquo;s lead or bring Afghanistan level in this gripping rivalry.

Pakistan won the toss and batted first against Afghanistan in the tri-series final at Sharjah, setting the stage for an exciting clash between the two rivals.

Pakistan Win Toss and Bat First in Tri-series Final Against Afghanistan

Pakistan displayed an impressive performance in the UAE Tri-Series final at Sharjah crushing Afghanistan by 75 runs to win the trophy. In pursuit of 142, Afghanistan did not start at all and were bowled all out at 66 in 15.5 overs.

The day belonged to Mohammad Nawaz who picked 5 wickets at a cost of 19 runs, with a spectacular hat-trick. He struck a hole through the batting line-up of Afghanistan and Rashid Khan was helplessly facing the pressure. It was almost impossible that the Afghan batsmen could settle because Nawaz had a combination of control, pace and spin.

Pakistan had posted 141/8 in 20 overs on a turning wicket. Fakhar Zaman added a rapid 27 to 26, and Nawaz added 25 crucial runs to provide a defensible total to Pakistan. Rashid Khan would make attempts to hold Afghanistan back, but lose his wicket at the wrong time. The pitch at Sharjah was turning way too much, and the spinners of Pakistan took advantage of it.

After the series win, Pakistani captain Salman Ali Agha applauded the plan and performance of his team. He said, &ldquo;It was the kind of wicket where even 130-140 was always going to be challenging and once we got there, we knew it would be tough for them. Since Nawaz&#39;s comeback, he&#39;s been outstanding, performing brilliantly in all departments. For me, he&#39;s the guy I can rely on in tough situations. People often ask us - former cricketers, fans on social media - why we don&#39;t play two spinners. We select based on conditions and today it worked. We wanted to prepare in a way that helps us for the Asia Cup and we&#39;ve done that. We&#39;ve been doing really well since the Bangladesh home series. Finally, we&#39;re in very good shape and fully prepared for the Asia Cup.&rdquo; &ndash; ESPNCricinfo

This was not only a win that would earn Pakistan the Tri-Series trophy, but also a confidence boost in regard to the <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/asia-cup-2025-fixtures-venues-and-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-battle-for-asian-supremacy/1257-2-0">Asia Cup 2025</a>. Although disappointed, Afghanistan will learn some lessons of the game, particularly on how to deal with pressure and spin in turning tracks.

The spinners of Pakistan were all show stealers, Nawaz was in full bloom, and the team demonstrated that they are not afraid of any team.

Mohammad Nawaz shines with 5 wickets including a hat-trick as Pakistan beats Afghanistan by 75 runs in UAE Tri-Series final.

Pakistan Clinches UAE Tri-Series Title with Dominant Win

The Pak vs Afg tri series final tonight in Sharjah is no ordinary game. This could be the most exciting match yet. Stay tuned for updates on the Pakistan vs Afghanistan final, streaming live in Bangladesh on tapmad. This final will set the momentum for both teams for the <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/asia-cup-2025-fixtures-venues-and-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-battle-for-asian-supremacy/1257-2-0">Asia Cup 2025</a>. Let&#39;s check the recent highlights of both teams in the tri series and get a full squad update.

<h2>Pak vs Afg Tri Series 1st Match Highlights&nbsp;</h2>

Date: August 29, 2025

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Result: <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/pakistan-beat-afghanistan-by-39-runs-in-t20i-comeback-clash/1258-2-0">Pakistan won</a> by 39 runs

Pakistan opened their campaign on the front foot. They scored 182 for 7 in 20 overs. The innings belonged to Salman Agha, who played a captain&#39;s knock. His unbeaten 53 off 36 balls with three boundaries and three sixes, gave Pakistan a strong finish.

Earlier, quick runs from Sahibzada Farhan (21 off 10) and Fakhar Zaman (20 off 17) set the momentum, but wickets were falling at regular intervals. Mohammad Nawaz chipped in with 21 off 11, while Faheem Ashraf&#39;s 14 from just five balls also ensured a healthy total. It was a complete team effort.&nbsp;

The chase was never easy, and Pakistan&#39;s bowlers proved too good. Rahmanullah Gurbaz gave Afghanistan hope with a quick 38, but it did not last long enough. Although Rashid Khan put up a fight, he made a fantastic 39 off 16 with five sixes. But Haris Rauf&#39;s 4 for 31 and Shaheen Afridi&#39;s 2 for 21 crushed the resistance. Afghanistani batters could manage to score just 143 in 19.5 overs. Pakistan won the first clash by 39 runs.

<h2>Pak vs Afg Tri Series 2nd Match Highlights&nbsp;</h2>

Date: September 2, 2025

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Result: <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/afghanistan-defeat-pakistan-by-18-runs-in-sharjah-t20i/1329-2-0">Afghanistan won</a> by 18 runs

Pakistan took the first game, but Afghanistan bounced back in the second. Batting first, they scored 169 for 5. A much needed 100+ run partnership between Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal was the best moment. Their partnership left the bowlers of Pakistan with no breathing space.

The only bowler who performed well in the game was Faheem Ashraf, who took 4/ 27, but late hitting by Rashid Khan placed Afghanistan in a good position.

Pakistan initiated their pursuit with fast innings by Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman. But the middle order could not manage to carry on. Salman Agha and Hasan Nawaz couldn&#39;t build on the start, and Afghanistan&#39;s spinners took control. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad all picked up two wickets each to keep Pakistan on the back foot.

<a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/haris-rauf-power-hitting-pakistan-intent/1337-2-0">Haris Rauf</a> gave some late hope with a quick 34 off 16 balls, but it wasn&#39;t enough. Pakistan ended on 151 for 9, 18 runs short, as Afghanistan leveled with 1-1.

<h2>Rivalry Balanced Before the Final</h2>

Both teams have one win each. Pakistan showed batting depth in the first game, while Afghanistan displayed strong top-order batting and spin in the second.

Key takeaways so far:

<ul>
	<li>Pakistan&#39;s top order has been patchy, but Salman Agha and Fakhar Zaman remain crucial.</li>
	<li>Afghanistan&#39;s batting is anchored by Zadran and Atal, who look in fine form.</li>
	<li>Bowling edge: Pakistan will count on spin from Abrar and Sufiyan, along with pace from Shaheen and Haris. Afghanistan&#39;s strength is their spin attack with Rashid, Nabi, and Noor.</li>
</ul>

Both teams look equal, which makes tonight&#39;s final in Sharjah even more exciting.

<h2>Full Squads for the Final Between Afghanistan and Pakistan</h2>

<h3>Pakistan Squad</h3>

Fakhar Zaman, Hassan Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Nawaz, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (C), Mohammad Haris (wk), Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem.

<h3>Afghanistan Squad</h3>

Darwish Abdul Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Mohammad Nabi, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Allah Ghazanfar, Fareed Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Rashid Khan (C).

Both line-ups are balanced. Pakistan brings more pace, Afghanistan more spin. It is the classic battle of fire against guile.

<h2>Pakistan&#39;s Road to the Final</h2>

The history of Pakistan has been up and down. They narrowly beat the UAE in one of the most crucial group stage matches, and this was possible due to Fakhar Zaman&#39;s 77 runs. It was a reminder to everyone as to why he is still very important for the batting line. That was needed to shift the narrative and shut down critics who claimed he was not in great form.

Bowling has always been the weapon of Pakistan, as ever. The new ball of Shaheen Afridi, with the support of the pace of Haris Rauf, will trouble the opposition top-order. Young spinners such as Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem can give breakthroughs at critical times.

Still, Pakistan hasn&#39;t looked invincible. Middle-order collapses and lapses in fielding have kept fans on edge. That is why tonight&#39;s contest feels like a true test of character.

<h2>Afghanistan&#39;s Charge to the Summit</h2>

Assuming that the tale of Pakistan is one of inconsistency, Afghanistan is one of grit. Whenever they appeared trapped, they counterattacked. The six-hitting skill of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and the steady hands of Ibrahim Zadran brought stability to them at the top.

Their middle order, with Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai, was a counterpoint, with big hitting and calculated strokes. Then they have the world-class spin trio: Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Noor Ahmad. Their combination makes it dreadful to bat in the middle overs.

What makes tonight exciting is Afghanistan&#39;s belief that they can beat Pakistan. That confidence is real, and it&#39;s exactly what they need for the final.

<h2>High Stakes Tonight</h2>

This final is more than just a trophy. A win here sets the tone for the Asia Cup 2025, giving both teams momentum and confidence.

Pakistan wants to remind everyone that even with new names, they remain a strong team. Afghanistan wants to prove they are no longer underdogs, but equals ready to challenge anyone.

The Pak vs Afg tri series final begins at 8:00 pm Pakistan Standard Time. Fans in Bangladesh can follow the entire clash live on tapmad, which has secured broadcast rights for this tri-series.

<h3>Players to Watch</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan): Fresh off his aggressive 77, he is Pakistan&#39;s most dangerous batter.</li>
	<li>Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan): If the ball swings under lights, he can dismantle Afghanistan&#39;s top order.</li>
	<li>Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan): Capable of taking the game away in the first six overs.</li>
	<li>Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): The captain, the bowler, the star. His duel with Pakistan&#39;s batters could decide the night.</li>
</ul>

<h2>The Atmosphere and Expectations</h2>

Fans are excited to watch the teams in action. Every boundary will raise roars, every wicket will spark celebrations. Sharjah under the floodlights, two passionate teams, and a trophy at stake, it can not get any better than this.

Few saw this rivalry becoming such a central part of cricket, but here we are. The Tri Series 2025 has built towards this moment, and all signs point to a thriller.

<h2>Final Word</h2>

Pak vs Afg tri series final is nothing short of excitement and goosebumps. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan know that one mistake could cost them the title. For the fans, whether in the stadium, in Pakistan and Afghanistan, or watching in Bangladesh on tapmad live, the stage is set for a night of drama. A high-stakes contest. A rivalry that keeps growing. A trophy waiting to be lifted.

Pakistan and Afghanistan face off in the Tri Series 2025 final in Sharjah. A high-stakes clash sets the tone for the Asia Cup 2025.

High-Stakes Showdown: Pak vs Afg Tri Series 2025 Final in Sharjah

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UAE T20I Tri Series 2025

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