Afghanistan hold nerve to beat UAE by 4 runs

KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghanistan defeated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by four runs in the final group-stage match of the tri-nation series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 170, setting a target of 171 for the hosts on Friday.

Ibrahim Zadran top-scored with a fluent 48 off 35 balls, striking three sixes and as many fours. Rahmanullah Gurbaz contributed 40 off 38 deliveries, while Karim Janat added a quick-fire 28 from just 14 balls.

Gurbaz and Zadran shared a 98-run opening partnership off 72 deliveries, laying a solid foundation. However, both were dismissed off consecutive balls, halting the momentum briefly.

For the UAE, left-arm spinner Haider Ali was the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets.

In reply, UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem led from the front with an aggressive 44 off 29 balls, hitting three sixes and two fours during the powerplay. Despite his efforts, the hosts fell just short, finishing on 166.

Sharafuddin Ashraf, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Zadran and Abdullah Ahmadzai took one wicket apiece for Afghanistan.

Afghanistan rested six frontline players, including captain Rashid Khan, ahead of Sunday’s final against Pakistan.

Both Pakistan and Afghanistan won three matches each by successfully defending targets, while the UAE lost all four of their games chasing.

Afghanistan and Pakistan will face each other again in the tri-nation series final tomorrow (Sunday) at the same venue in Sharjah.

kk/sa