Pakistan, Afghanistan & UAE Ready for Sharjah Tri-Series Ahead of Asia Cup
Sharjah (Sports Desk) – The cricket action heats up as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE prepare for a T20 tri-nation series starting Friday in Sharjah. The tournament serves as the perfect rehearsal for the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be played in Abu Dhabi and Dubai next month.
Pakistan team in Sharjah tri-series 2025 warm-up for Asia Cup
Pakistan Enter as Favorites Under Salman Agha’s Leadership
Despite criticism around their recent performances, Pakistan head into the tri-series as favorites. Under the guidance of new white-ball coach Mike Hesson, the Men in Green continue their aggressive batting approach.
Pakistan recently dominated Bangladesh and West Indies, but their bowling strategy remains a talking point. With a reliance on all-rounders over specialist bowlers, Pakistan’s adaptability on slow Sharjah pitches will be tested.
Afghanistan Banking on Spin Magic
Afghanistan pose a serious challenge with their world-class spin attack. Legends like Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi make them particularly dangerous in Sharjah’s spin-friendly conditions.
However, Afghanistan haven’t played a T20I in 2025 yet, making this tri-series crucial for team cohesion before entering the Asia Cup, where they face a tougher group alongside Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
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UAE Look to Upset Big Guns
For UAE, this tri-series is the biggest stage before their Asia Cup campaign. Skipper Muhammad Waseem has been their batting mainstay, while hitters like Asif Khan add firepower in the middle order.
Their spin duo of Haider Ali and Zuhaib Zubair will be key on Sharjah’s slower surfaces. UAE’s recent series win over Bangladesh (2-1) proves they can spring surprises against higher-ranked opponents.
Tri-Series Fixture in Sharjah
Teams: Pakistan 🇵🇰 | Afghanistan 🇦🇫 | UAE 🇦🇪
Format: T20 Tri-Series
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium
Start Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
Asia Cup Prep: Tournament serves as warm-up before Asia Cup 2025 in Abu Dhabi & Dubai
Why This Tri-Series Matters
While the tri-series itself won’t carry trophies of major significance, it acts as the perfect dress rehearsal for Asia Cup 2025. For Pakistan, it’s about finalizing bowling strategies. For Afghanistan, it’s about rhythm and team chemistry. For UAE, it’s about proving they can compete with Asia’s elite.
Sharjah has a way of producing memorable cricket moments, and this week-long series may add another chapter to its history.