Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first in their second match of the T20 International tri-series against the United Arab Emirates at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Saturday. The decision comes as the team looks to build on the momentum from a strong opening victory and solidify its position in the tournament.
The match follows a commanding 39-run win over Afghanistan just a day prior. In that game, a stellar unbeaten half-century from Salman Ali Agha and a four-wicket haul by fast bowler Haris Rauf secured a confident start to Pakistan’s campaign in the series.
Looking to manage their squad, Pakistan’s team management made two strategic changes for the encounter against the UAE. Pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi and the in-form Haris Rauf were rested, with all-rounder Salman Mirza and experienced fast bowler Hasan Ali brought into the playing XI as their replacements.
The changes indicate a focus on rotation and providing match time to key players throughout the series. The match against the UAE presents an opportunity for the new inclusions to make their mark and for the team to continue building cohesion ahead of future challenges.
