All-round Afghanistan beat Pakistan to create History in Sharjah

Afghanistan, banking on an incredible bowling performance, beat Pakistan comprehensively by 6 wickets to secure its first-ever victory over Pakistan in international cricket.

Home Media International 25 Mar 2023

All-round Afghanistan beat Pakistan to create History in Sharjah

Afghanistan, banking on an incredible bowling performance, beat Pakistan comprehensively by 6 wickets to secure its first-ever victory over Pakistan in international cricket.

After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first, but despite a strong start, they struggled to build momentum throughout their innings, with Afghanistan's bowlers restricting them to just 92 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 20 overs. Afghanistan's Fazal Haq (2/13), Mujeeb Ur Rahman (2/9) and Mohammad Nabi (2/12) shared 6 wickets between them, whereas the skipper Rashid Khan (1/15), Azmatullah (1/20) and Naveen Ul Haq (1/19) returned one wicket each.

In response, Afghanistan came out strong, scoring 23/0 in the first four overs, before the debutant Ihsanullah was brought into the attack, who struck twice in his first three balls to push Afghanistan back. Afghanistan lost two more wickets in the process but Mohammad Nabi and Najibullah Zadran ensured Afghanistan did not lost any other wicket and chased down the target with ease and secured a comfortable 6-wicket victory in the 18th over. Mohammad Nabi set the tone for the innings with an important knock of 38* runs off as many balls, while Najibullah Zadran provided stability with an unbeaten 17 off 23 deliveries.

This victory marks a major milestone for Afghan cricket, and a significant moment in the team's history. As they prepare to face Pakistan in the remaining two T20I matches, Afghanistan will no doubt be riding high on the confidence and momentum of this impressive win.