The Pakistan-Afghanistan T20 rivalry captivates cricket fans worldwide. Both teams deliver electrifying matches consistently. Pakistan holds a historical edge, but Afghanistan now challenges fiercely. Their first T20I clash occurred in 2013, with Pakistan scoring 138 runs to defeat Afghanistan’s 132. Years passed without bilateral series, though they met in tournaments. In the 2018 Asia Cup, Pakistan narrowly beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a very tight match.The 2021 World Cup saw more drama as Asif Ali’s sixes sealed Pakistan’s chase of 148 runs.
Pakistan and Afghanistan T20: Rising Tensions
The 2022 Asia Cup intensified the rivalry when Naseem Shah’s two sixes clinched victory for Pakistan, leaving Afghanistanheartbroken.In2023,Sharjah became the first place to host a bilateral T20I series. Afghanistan surprised Pakistan in the first game by easily chasing down 93 runs. The second match followed suit, with Rahman Ullah Gurbaz’s brilliance guiding Afghanistan to chase 131 runs. Pakistan fought back in the third, posting 182 runs, led by Shadab Khan’s batting, and bowled Afghanistan out for 116. Afghanistan claimed the series 2-1, sparking wild celebrations, while Pakistan reflected on their losses.
Pakistan and Afghanistan Growing Respect
This rivalry grows stronger with mutual respect. Captains consistently praise each other’s skills. In 2025, a Tri-Series involving UAE brought more action in Sharjah. Pakistan started strong, defeating UAE by 39 runs, with Haris Rauf’s four wickets dismantling their batting. Against Afghanistan, the latter batted first, as Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal’s 113-run partnership powered them to 169 for five. Pakistan’s chase faltered early when Fazalhaq Farooqi dismissed Saim Ayub for zero.
Pakistan and Afghanistan T20: Recent Battles
Spinners Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and debutant Noor Ahmad dominated, restricting Pakistan to 151 for nine, despite Haris Rauf’s entertaining 34 not out. Afghanistan won by 18 runs. Both teams now hold four points in the Tri-Series, with UAE at zero, setting up an exciting final re match. Afghanistan’s spin bowlers keep stopping the other teams, holding onto their score four times, while Pakistan depends on their fast bowlers. Babar Azam leads Pakistan strategically, and Rashid Khan inspires Afghanistan dynamically.
T20 Future Excitement
Fans eagerly anticipate more fireworks. This series helps make cricket more popular in the area, encourages young people, and spreads awareness about the sport. Pakistan plans a comeback, while Afghanistan builds momentum. The upcoming matches will crown the champion, uniting nations through cricket’s universal appeal and entertaining fans globally with thrilling encounters.