The ICC-backed T20 tri-series featuring Pakistan, Afghanistan and the UAE has been officially confirmed, with matches set to begin in Sharjah on 29 August. The tournament, designed as a final preparation ahead of the Asia Cup in September, will provide all three teams with crucial match practice in conditions identical to the upcoming continental tournament.
What began as a scheduled bilateral series between Pakistan and Afghanistan evolved into a tri-nation event after discussions between the Pakistan Cricket Board, Afghanistan Cricket Board and the Emirates Cricket Board. The inclusion of the UAE adds both competitive value and regional representation to the event, ensuring a variety of opposition ahead of the Asia Cup.
The Sharjah Cricket Stadium will host all fixtures under lights, with each team playing the others twice in a round-robin format before the final on 7 September. Pakistan will open the series against Afghanistan on 29 August, followed by UAE facing Pakistan the next day. With the Asia Cup set to start on 9 September, the tri-series offers an immediate transition from preparation to high-stakes competition.
For Pakistan and Afghanistan, the series is a chance to finalize combinations and gain rhythm in T20 cricket after recent bilateral commitments. For the UAE, it represents an opportunity to test themselves against two higher-ranked sides and sharpen their squad for the Asia Cup group stage.
The timing of the event underscores its importance: just two days separate the tri-series final and the Asia Cup opener, allowing teams to carry momentum directly into the tournament. Playing in Sharjah also allows squads to adapt to UAE’s unique pitches and conditions, an advantage that could prove decisive in the coming weeks.
With the Asia Cup featuring India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, UAE and other Asian heavyweights, the tri-series will be watched closely as a form guide and tactical rehearsal. For all three teams, it is more than just a warm-up—it is a critical step in their build-up to one of the year’s most anticipated cricket events.