AFG vs PAK 1st T20I Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s Match Between Afghanistan and Pakistan? The UAE T20 Tri-Series 2025 kicks off with a mouthwatering clash between Afghanistan and Pakistan at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday, August 29, 2025. Scheduled to start at 8:30 PM IST, this encounter promises fireworks as both sides look to begin the tournament with a win.
Afghanistan – Confident and Hungry
Afghanistan, currently ranked No. 9 in ICC T20I rankings, come into this series with momentum. They recently secured a 2-1 series win against Zimbabwe, proving they are not to be underestimated.
With match-winners like Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Azmatullah Omarzai, Ibrahim Zadran, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Naveen-ul-Haq, Afghanistan have the firepower to challenge Pakistan. Their mix of explosive batters and world-class spinners makes them dangerous opponents.
Pakistan – Stronger on Paper
Pakistan, placed at No. 8 in ICC rankings, will enter the match full of confidence after defeating West Indies 2-1 in their last T20I series. Under the leadership of Salman Agha, Pakistan’s squad looks well-balanced with both young talent and experienced stars.
- Rising stars: Hasan Nawaz, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris, Sahibzada Farhan
- Experienced pros: Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali
With depth in both batting and bowling, Pakistan will start as the favorites but cannot afford to take Afghanistan lightly.
AFG vs PAK Head-to-Head in T20Is
| Category | Afghanistan | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 7 | 7 |
| Matches Won | 3 | 4 |
| Matches Lost | 4 | 3 |
| No Result | 0 | 0 |
Pakistan leads narrowly, but Afghanistan’s recent form suggests the contest will be closer than ever.
Sharjah Pitch Report – What to Expect
The Sharjah Cricket Stadium is known for high-scoring T20 matches thanks to its short boundaries and flat track.
- Batting-friendly: Expect plenty of sixes and boundaries.
- Spinners in play: As the match progresses, spinners may get grip from the surface.
- Toss factor: Out of 41 T20Is, 23 have been won by teams batting first, so captains may prefer setting a target.
Players to Watch Out For
Afghanistan
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – Explosive opener with 231 runs in his last 10 matches.
- Rashid Khan – 21 wickets in his last 10 games; Afghanistan’s X-factor.
- Naveen-ul-Haq – 19 wickets in his last 10 outings; lethal with new ball and at the death.
Pakistan
- Hasan Nawaz – Breakthrough batting star with 233 runs at a strike rate of 167 in his last 10 games.
- Sahibzada Farhan – Reliable top-order batter, scoring 229 runs in 6 matches at an average of 38.
- Hasan Ali – 9 wickets in his last 5 matches; brings energy and aggression with the ball.
Predicted Top Performers
- Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq
- Pakistan: Hasan Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Hasan Ali
AFG vs PAK Match Prediction
- Predicted 1st innings score: 150–170
- Predicted 2nd innings score: 140–160
Who Will Win?
While Afghanistan has the talent to upset, Pakistan’s depth in both batting and bowling gives them the edge. Expect Pakistan to start the series with a narrow win, though Afghanistan will surely test them.
Final Thoughts
The AFG vs PAK 1st T20I at Sharjah promises to be a thriller with explosive batting, world-class bowling, and passionate fan support. With both teams eager to set the tone for the UAE Tri-Series 2025, cricket fans are in for an unforgettable night of action.
