Pakistan lifted the UAE T20I Tri-Series trophy in emphatic fashion on Sunday night after a dazzling bowling display from all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz, who claimed a stunning hat-trick and finished with career-best figures of 5 for 19. The left-arm spinner’s brilliance dismantled Afghanistan’s chase in the final played at Sharjah, sealing a 75-run victory for the Men in Green.
Nawaz Turns the Tide
Chasing Pakistan’s competitive total, Afghanistan looked steady before Nawaz entered the attack. His clever variations and control turned the match on its head, with three wickets in as many deliveries. Nawaz removed Ibrahim Zadran, smartly stumped, followed immediately by Karim Janat, trapped lbw, and then Rashid Khan, caught at short cover completing a remarkable hat-trick that sent the Sharjah crowd into raptures.
The Afghan middle order crumbled under pressure, and Nawaz went on to add two more scalps, ending with five wickets his best performance in international T20 cricket.
Pakistan’s Dominant Performance
Earlier in the match, Pakistan’s batters set the tone with solid contributions across the top and middle order, posting a total that always looked challenging on a slowing surface. Afghanistan began their reply with intent, but once Nawaz struck, their hopes of a comeback faded rapidly.
The victory not only gave Pakistan the tri-series crown but also underlined the depth and versatility in their bowling attack. Nawaz’s spell will be remembered as one of the standout moments in recent T20 history, as he became only the third Pakistani bowler to record a hat-trick in T20 internationals.
