Afghanistan and Pakistan open the T20I Tri-Nation Series with a high-stakes clash as the tournament gets underway in Sharjah. The three-team event also features the United Arab Emirates and runs in a double round-robin format from August 29 to September 5, with the top two teams meeting in the final on September 7, just ahead of Asia Cup action in the UAE.
Key details
– When: Afghanistan vs Pakistan, 1st match on Friday, August 29
– Where: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah
– Start time: 8:30 PM IST (toss at 8:00 PM)
– TV coverage: Not televised live in India
– Live streaming: FanCode app and website in India
– Context: The Tri-Series serves as essential preparation for Asia Cup 2025, which will also be held in the UAE. For Pakistan and Afghanistan, the tournament offers a crucial chance to acclimate to UAE conditions, while the hosts UAE benefit from facing two of Asia’s strongest teams in familiar venues.
What to expect
– A fast-paced start to the series with high-pressure matchups between Afghanistan and Pakistan, two of the region’s top limited-overs sides.
– Valuable lessons on adapting to Sharjah’s conditions, particularly the balance between power-hitting and constraint bowling in the UAE heat.
– An opportunity for emerging talents from all three squads to stake a claim ahead of the Asia Cup.
Additional thoughts
– This series could help Pakistan and Afghanistan refine their squad selection and fielding plans, while UAE gains confidence from hosting a marquee tri-series on home soil.
– Given Sharjah’s history of high-scoring games, batters who can pace innings and rotate strike will likely have the edge, though shallow dew in the evening can influence captaincy and bowling choices.
Positive note
– With Asia Cup preparations underway, fans can expect competitive cricket and the emergence of new talents who could shape the continental tournament’s narrative.
Summary
– The Afghanistan-Pakistan opener kicks off a three-team T20I series in Sharjah, a key dress rehearsal for Asia Cup 2025. All games are at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the first ball at 8:30 PM IST on August 29 and streaming available on FanCode in India. The UAE hosts a valuable chance for teams to acclimate to the conditions ahead of a major regional showpiece. negative