Afghanistan defeated Pakistan for the first time in T20 Internationals on Friday in Sharjah, thanks to Mohammad Nabi’s outstanding performance across the board.
Pakistan, who had rested several of their regulars, including skipper Babar Azam, battled on a sluggish and low surface at Sharjah Cricket Stadium as they were reduced to an embarrassing 92/9 in their 20 overs.
Nabi (2/12), Mujeeb-ur-Rahman (29), and Fazalhaq Farooqi (2/13) all took two wickets, while skipper Rashid Khan, Azmatullah, and Naveen-ul-Haq each took one.
A first-ever T20I victory for Afghanistan over Pakistan.
Afghanistan’s batsmen battled during the run chase, but they were able to reach the goal in 17.5 overs.
With a straight six off Ihsanullah, Nabi brought about Afghanistan’s first victory over Pakistan in five attempts with some flair.
Afghanistan will now attempt to win their first T20 series against Pakistan by winning one of the two remaining games on Sunday and Monday.
With the absence of Babar and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan struggled to get momentum after electing to bat.
Saim Ayub began energetically, scoring 17 runs off 15 balls before being bowled by Naveen-ul-Haq. His opening partner, Mohammad Haris, was dismissed for six as he battled to adapt to the slow surface.
Abdullah Shafique and Azam Khan died scoreless in the eighth over as Pakistan fell to 41/5.
Before Imad Wasim’s 18-run contribution, Pakistan were in danger of scoring their lowest total in T20Is — 74 against Australia in 2012 — until they reached 92.
“Occasionally, this may occur due to children’s anxiety, but they must be given opportunities. As professionals, we cannot make excuses for the conditions; rather, we must learn from this loss “said Pakistan captain Shadab Khan.
