Sharjah tri-series schedule revealed
The tri-series in Sharjah begins on 29 August with Pakistan facing Afghanistan, while the final between the top two teams will be played on 7 September.
The full schedule of the Pakistan, Afghanistan, and UAE T20 tri-series has been confirmed, with all matches set to take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The week-long event will open with Pakistan playing Afghanistan on 29 August at 7pm local time. The competition will then proceed almost daily until the final, which is scheduled for 7 September at the same venue and time.Craig Ervine out of Sri Lanka ODIs with calf injury
The second fixture will see Pakistan take on hosts UAE on 30 August, while Afghanistan will meet UAE on 1 September. The group stage continues with Pakistan’s rematch against Afghanistan on 2 September, followed by Pakistan’s encounter with UAE on 4 September. The last league game, between Afghanistan and UAE, is set for 5 September.
Each match has been fixed for a 7pm local start, catering to evening crowds in Sharjah and prime television broadcast slots. Pakistan are scheduled to play four group-stage matches, while Afghanistan and UAE will play three each. The two teams topping the points table at the conclusion of the round-robin stage will qualify for the final.
The complete tri-series schedule is as follows:
29 August – Afghanistan v Pakistan – 7pm local time
30 August – UAE v Pakistan – 7pm local time
1 September – UAE v Afghanistan – 7pm local time
2 September – Pakistan v Afghanistan – 7pm local time
4 September – Pakistan v UAE – 7pm local time
5 September – Afghanistan v UAE – 7pm local time
7 September – Final – 7pm local time
The structure ensures that Pakistan feature prominently in the group stage, playing back-to-back matches and then returning after short breaks. This allows the squad, led by Salman Ali Agha, to test depth and combinations before the Asia Cup. For Afghanistan, the format offers a chance to strengthen their balance against familiar opposition, while the UAE will look to make the most of home conditions and the rare opportunity to host higher-ranked teams.
The Sharjah Cricket Stadium has long been a hub for international cricket in the region, with a rich history of hosting multi-nation tournaments since the 1980s. With the Asia Cup beginning shortly after on 9 September in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the tri-series schedule provides a critical build-up for all three teams aiming to carry momentum into the continental event.
The tightly packed fixtures underline the importance of player fitness, rotation, and adaptability in back-to-back contests. For fans in Sharjah and across the region, the confirmed schedule guarantees seven evenings of competitive T20 cricket, culminating in a high-stakes final on 7 September.
