Pakistan stormed into the final of the T20 tri-series in Sharjah with a 31-run win over hosts United Arab Emirates, thanks to a powerful all-round display anchored by Fakhar Zaman’s brilliance with the bat and Abrar Ahmed’s spin magic with the ball.
Put in to bat first, Pakistan had a rocky start as the top order faltered. At 80 for 5, they looked vulnerable, but Fakhar Zaman seized control of the innings with a sparkling unbeaten 77 off just 44 deliveries. It was his first T20 half-century in 15 innings, and it came when his side needed it most. Zaman’s knock, packed with crisp boundaries and well-timed sixes, showcased his ability to shift gears under pressure. He was well supported by Mohammad Nawaz, who struck a lively 37 not out from 27 balls. Together, they built a crucial 91-run stand for the sixth wicket, dragging Pakistan out of trouble and propelling them to a competitive 171 for 5 in their 20 overs.
The UAE, chasing 172, needed a solid start to stay in the contest. However, Pakistan’s bowling unit proved too strong, with leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed delivering a career-best performance. Playing his first match of the series, Abrar bamboozled the UAE batters with sharp turn and clever variations, finishing with stunning figures of 4 for 9 from his four overs. His spell completely derailed the hosts’ chase, ensuring Pakistan remained in control throughout.
Despite the collapse around him, UAE’s Alishan Sharafu stood tall with a fighting 68 from 51 balls, an innings decorated with four boundaries and four towering sixes. But without meaningful partnerships, Sharafu’s resistance only delayed the inevitable. The home side eventually managed 140 for 7, falling well short by 31 runs.
For Pakistan, this was more than just a group-stage win. It was a statement of intent ahead of the final, particularly after overcoming early batting jitters. Fakhar’s return to form is a timely boost, considering his lean patch in recent months. His ability to anchor and accelerate in the middle order provides Pakistan with much-needed stability in T20 cricket. Abrar’s performance also adds a new dimension to the bowling attack, giving the side a reliable wicket-taking option in the middle overs.
This victory was Pakistan’s third in four matches of the tri-series, underlining their consistency. Their place in the final, set against Afghanistan, promises a high-stakes clash. Afghanistan, known for their strong spin attack and aggressive batting, will pose a different challenge, but Pakistan’s depth in both batting and bowling gives them confidence heading in.
As the team now prepares for Sunday’s title showdown, the spotlight will remain on Fakhar Zaman to continue his resurgence and on Abrar Ahmed to maintain his wicket-taking form. For Pakistan fans, this dominant win against UAE serves as the perfect build-up, setting the tone for what could be an exciting finale in Sharjah.
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