PCB’s Naqvi hails Pakistan’s dominant display in tri-series final – SUCH TV

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday praised the national team for their dominant victory over Afghanistan in the final of the tri-nation T20I series at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Naqvi reserved special mention for left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz, commending his match-winning all-round performance, which included a hat-trick, fearless batting, and decisive contributions that turned the match in Pakistan’s favour.

“Despite posting a modest total, the team’s excellent teamwork ensured a convincing win against Afghanistan,” Naqvi said.

He also congratulated Head Coach Mike Hesson, Captain Salman Ali Agha, and the entire squad on the achievement, calling it a morale booster for future tournaments.

Taking to social media platform X, the PCB chief highlighted Pakistan’s recent consistency, winning 10 out of 14 T20 matches under Hesson’s guidance.

He urged fans and critics alike to rally behind the team ahead of the Asia Cup.

“Congratulations to Team Pakistan on winning the Tri-Series! This is a young, talented side playing fearless cricket.

Full support to the boys, coaches, and selectors for the Asia Cup—criticism and analysis can wait until after the tournament,” Naqvi wrote.

In the final, Pakistan defeated Afghanistan by 75 runs. Defending 142, Pakistan’s bowlers dismantled Afghanistan for just 66.

Shaheen Afridi struck early, removing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for five, before Abrar Ahmed dismissed Sediqullah Atal for 13.

Mohammad Nawaz then stole the spotlight, striking twice in one over, before completing his hat-trick by removing Ibrahim Zadran.

He went on to claim a fourth wicket, dismissing Karim Janat, reducing Afghanistan to 32-6 and sealing Pakistan’s commanding victory.

Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem also claimed two wickets each.

Pakistan’s innings saw early wickets, with Sahibzada Farhan dismissed for a duck. Saim Ayub (17) and Fakhar Zaman (27) offered resistance before falling to spinners.

Skipper Salman Ali Agha and Nawaz added 40 runs to stabilize the innings, with Nawaz contributing 25. Pakistan set a target of 141-8.

Rashid Khan took 3/38, while Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and AM Ghazanfar claimed the remaining wickets.