Afghanistan reach 137/8 against Pakistan in only T20 at Sharjah

Dec 8, 2013

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Najibullah Zadran’s gritty 38 took Afghanistan to 137 for eight in 20 overs against Pakistan in the only T20 International at Sharjah on Sunday.

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Afghanistan didn’t get off to a good start. They lost both their openers — Mohammad Shahzad and Nawroz Mangal­ — in 25 balls with the score on seven.

However, Najibullah put Afghanistan back in the contest with some good batting in company of skipper Mohammad Nabi (15) and Shamiullah Shenwari (16). The fourth wicket partnership put on 35 runs in just 20 balls.

Following the dismissal of Najibullah, Mirwais Ashraf took the attack on the Pakistan bowlers as he raced away to a quickfire 28.

Sohail Tanvir and Junaid Khan were the only two pacers deployed by the hosts while they used as many as four spinners. Junaid was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets for 24 runs in his four overs.

Afghanistan would be happy with their efforts as they look to make their mark against top sides in world cricket.

Brief scores: 

Afghanistan 137 for 8 in 20 overs (Najibullah Zadran 38; Junaid Khan 3 for 24) vs Pakistan

Full Scorecard