Afghanistan vs United Arab Emirates – T20I TriSeries 2025, Match 6 Preview

Date: Friday, 05 September 2025
Time: 16:00 GMT (16:00 BST / 11:30 AM ET / 8:30 PM IST)
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah
Tournament: United Arab Emirates T20I TriSeries 2025
Match: Game 6
Teams: Afghanistan vs United Arab Emirates

Match Context

The T20I TriSeries 2025 in Sharjah is reaching a crucial stage as Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates prepare for a high-stakes clash on Friday, 5th September. With only one match remaining before the final on Sunday, both teams are vying for a coveted spot in the TriSeries final.

Afghanistan, led by the evergreen Rashid Khan, currently sit in a strong position after a convincing victory over Pakistan. Their experience in high-pressure T20I games and the presence of world-class all-rounders will be vital as they look to secure the top spot in the points table.

On the other hand, the UAE, captained by Muhammad Waseem, need a win to stay in contention. Having already played Pakistan twice, they understand the challenge ahead and will be eager to showcase their capabilities against one of the most formidable sides in world cricket.

Team Insights

Afghanistan

Afghanistan's lineup is a blend of seasoned pros and emerging stars. The heart of the team lies in the spin department, with Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman forming a lethal spin duo. The batting has been bolstered by the likes of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, and Sediqullah Atal, who have shown consistency in crunch situations.

Rashid Khan, with his match-winning ability, is the key to Afghanistan’s success. The pace attack, led by Fazalhaq Farooqi and Noor Ahmad, has also been effective in exploiting the conditions in Sharjah.

Predicted XI:

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
• Ibrahim Zadran
• Sediqullah Atal
• Darwish Rasooli
• Karim Janat
• Azmatullah Omarzai
• Rashid Khan (c)
• Mohammad Nabi
• Sharafuddin Ashraf
• Mujeeb Ur Rahman
• Fazalhaq Farooqi

United Arab Emirates

The UAE have made a name for themselves in the T20 format, especially in high-pressure qualifiers. They have a balanced squad with a strong middle order anchored by Muhammad Waseem and supported by the likes of Asif Khan, Dhruv Parashar, and Ethan D'Souza.

The UAE’s spinners, led by Saghir Khan and Junaid Siddique, have been instrumental in tight games, and their batters have shown the ability to chase down difficult totals. However, they will need to be at their best to overcome Afghanistan's firepower.

Predicted XI:

• Muhammad Zohaib
• Muhammad Waseem (c)
• Asif Khan
• Alishan Sharafu
• Rahul Chopra (wk)
• Ethan D'Souza
• Dhruv Parashar
• Saghir Khan
• Haider Ali
• Junaid Siddique
• Muhammad Jawadullah

Key Players to Watch

• Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): The maestro of spin in the shortest format, Rashid is the linchpin of Afghanistan's attack. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments could be the difference.

• Muhammad Waseem (UAE): The UAE captain is a reliable all-rounder and one of the team's key performers in both batting and bowling.

• Fazalhaq Farooqi (Afghanistan): A rising star in world cricket, Farooqi's pace and ability to swing the ball make him a potent threat in the death overs.

• Dhruv Parashar (UAE): A consistent performer for the UAE, Parashar’s ability to rotate the strike and take wickets will be crucial for UAE’s hopes.

Venue Conditions

Sharjah Cricket Stadium has been a neutral and consistent venue for the TriSeries. The pitch is generally good for batting with some assistance for spinners in the latter stages. The weather is expected to be pleasant, with no threat of rain, allowing for a full 20 overs in each innings.

Head-to-Head

In recent encounters, Afghanistan have held the upper hand, particularly in the 2024 Asia Cup where they defeated the UAE comfortably. However, the UAE are a resilient side and have the potential to spring surprises, especially in shorter formats.

Prediction

Afghanistan have the edge in terms of experience, depth, and key match-winners. However, the UAE will be motivated to prove themselves and are capable of a shock result. The toss could be a pivotal moment, with the side batting second likely to have the advantage.

Prediction: Afghanistan to win by 6-8 runs.

Where to Watch

• Live Streaming (India): FanCode App & Website
• Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah
• Time (IST): 8:30 PM

Final Thoughts

This match is more than just a T20I – it's a battle for the final, with both teams eager to prove their worth in the TriSeries. Afghanistan will look to seal the top spot, while the UAE will be desperate to keep their hopes alive. With a packed lineup of stars and a high-stakes scenario, this promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Catch the action this Friday at 16:00 GMT!
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