(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Fakhar Zaman, Abrar Ahmed Shine as Pakistan Seal Spot in Tri-Series Final
Pakistan booked their place in the tri-nation series final with a hard-fought victory over the UAE, powered by standout performances from Fakhar Zaman and Abrar Ahmed.
Fakhar led the charge with a brilliant knock of 77 runs, rescuing Pakistan after a shaky start with the bat. Later, leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed produced a career-best spell, taking four wickets for just nine runs to dismantle the UAE batting lineup. His performance proved decisive in securing the win.
Speaking after the match, Abrar revealed that spending time on the sidelines earlier in the series fueled his hunger to perform.
“I’ve been consistent in the PSL for the past two years. When you sit outside, your desire to contribute grows stronger—you just wait for your opportunity,” he said. The spinner also acknowledged head coach Mike Hesson’s approach of rotating players to give everyone a chance.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Abrar has struggled to lock down a permanent spot in Pakistan’s bowling attack. He featured in only one match during the Bangladesh tour and missed the first three games of this series before being recalled in place of Sufiyan Muqeem.
That break, however, seems to have reignited his confidence. Pakistan will now hope Abrar carries his form into the final against Afghanistan and the upcoming Asia Cup, with the T20 World Cup 2026 looming on the horizon.
If his latest performance is any indication, Pakistan may have found the spin option they need to strengthen their bowling arsenal for the challenges ahead.
