In the tri-series before the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan beat Afghanistan by 39 runs. Afghanistan’s batting performance was disappointing, as they lost five wickets in 20 balls, managing to score only 4 runs. Pakistani bowler Haris Rauf was the star of the show, taking four wickets in just 23 balls, effectively ending Afghanistan’s chances. Afghanistan, aiming for a target of 183 runs, had a shaky start. However, they showed signs of recovery, reaching 93/2 in 11 overs. The game changed in the 12th over when Haris Rauf took two wickets. This sparked a collapse, and Afghanistan lost five wickets quickly. The Afghan team was eventually all out for 143 runs in 19.5 overs. Rashid Khan, the captain, attempted to salvage the innings with 39 runs. Other contributors included Sadullah Atal (23 runs) and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (38 runs). Haris Rauf’s bowling performance was outstanding, with 4 wickets for 31 runs in 3.5 overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Nawaz, and Sufiyan Muqeem each secured two wickets. Pakistan’s captain, Salman Agha, also scored a half-century.
