Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates are in discussions to stage a tri-nation T20I series in August, with the UAE likely to host the event. The move would mark a shift from an originally scheduled bilateral series between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chairman Mirwais Ashraf confirmed the development during an interview with ACB Media, revealing that the initiative came from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
“A T20I series against Pakistan was scheduled for August, but they suggested adding another team, UAE, to the series.”
The UAE’s inclusion is being viewed as a strategic enhancement. The Emirati team, coming off a 2-1 T20I series win against Bangladesh at home, has emerged as a competitive and fast-improving side. Their involvement would offer both Afghanistan and Pakistan a diverse playing challenge in conditions expected to mirror those of the upcoming Asia Cup, which is also likely to be held in the UAE.
Preparation opportunity for Asia Cup and T20 World Cup
The tri-series is seen as a vital warm-up opportunity ahead of two major events — the ACC Men’s Asia Cup and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The PCB reportedly proposed expanding the series to create a more competitive environment and to better utilize the international calendar window.
Ashraf made it clear that Afghanistan is fully behind the idea and open to the UAE hosting the matches.
“The tri-nation series will be helpful for us to prepare for the Asia Cup.”
He also emphasized that the ACB has no objections to the host country, focusing instead on gaining match readiness for upcoming high-profile tournaments.
Final schedule and venue details pending
While discussions are ongoing, all three boards are reportedly aligned in principle, with final confirmation and official fixtures expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The August timeframe remains tentative but is considered the most likely window.
This proposed tri-nation event represents not just a logistical pivot but also a competitive boost for all three teams involved, especially with regional supremacy and global T20 ambitions on the horizon.
