Mohammad Nawaz Hat-Trick vs Afghanistan Secures Tri-Series Title for Pakistan
The Mohammad Nawaz five-wicket haul vs Afghanistan powered Pakistan to a commanding 75-run victory in the tri-series final at Sharjah. On a surface offering grip and dew, Nawaz’s magical spell dismantled Afghanistan’s chase, restricting them to just 66 after Pakistan managed 141 for 8 batting first. His efforts, including a hat-trick, secured Pakistan the tri-series title and provided a confidence boost ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles Before Nawaz Dominated
Opting to bat first, Pakistan endured a shaky start when Sahibzada Farhan departed for a duck. Despite contributions from Fakhar Zaman (27) and Nawaz (25), partnerships never flourished against Afghanistan’s spinners. Rashid Khan impressed with 3 for 38, limiting Pakistan to what seemed like a modest total. However, the eventual outcome showed how crucial Nawaz’s spell would become in shifting momentum completely.
Mohammad Nawaz Hat-Trick Turns the Game
The Mohammad Nawaz five-wicket haul vs Afghanistan defined the contest. Introduced during the fifth over, he first trapped Darwesh Rasooli and then removed Azmatullah on the very next ball. His hat-trick came when Ibrahim Zadran stepped out and was stumped brilliantly by Mohammad Haris. Nawaz continued his devastating spell by dismissing Karim Janat and Rashid Khan, ending with stunning figures of 5 for 19. This collapse saw Afghanistan lose five wickets for only four runs, leaving their chase in ruins.
Shaheen Afridi and Supporting Cast
Shaheen Shah Afridi also played a vital role, striking early to remove Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Abrar Ahmed and Arafat Minhas contributed with two wickets each, ensuring no recovery was possible. Afghanistan’s batting crumbled under relentless pressure, silencing a majority Afghan crowd that expected a strong fight on the big occasion.
Rashid Khan’s Brief Resistance Overshadowed
Although Rashid Khan had earlier dented Pakistan’s batting with three wickets, his efforts were overshadowed by the brilliance of Nawaz. Pakistan even managed to attack him late in the innings, collecting 17 runs in one over through Salman Agha and Faheem Ashraf. That assault on Afghanistan’s star bowler provided much-needed runs before Nawaz stole the spotlight in the second innings.
Nawaz the Matchwinner Again
This Mohammad Nawaz five-wicket haul vs Afghanistan once more highlighted his growing reputation as a genuine matchwinner for Pakistan. Babar Azam’s earlier praise of him seems prophetic, as Nawaz continues to deliver in crucial encounters. His performance not only clinched the tri-series title but also reinforced Pakistan’s confidence going into the Asia Cup.
