The third match of the World Cup 2026 delivered an intense contest as Pakistan defeated Afghanistan by 22 runs in Group B at the Adelaide Oval. In a match marked by explosive cameos, regular wickets, and disciplined bowling, Pakistan held their nerve to secure their first win of the tournament.

Batting first, Pakistan were put under pressure early as Afghanistan’s bowlers struck regularly, never allowing the innings to settle. Amid the chaos, Saud Shakeel played a vital anchoring role, top-scoring with a composed 40 off 21 balls. He found brief but valuable support from Shan Masood, who smashed 32 off just 12 deliveries, injecting momentum during the middle overs. Despite quick contributions from Fakhar Zaman and Aamer Jamal, Pakistan lost wickets in clusters and were eventually bowled out for 113 runs in 9.4 overs.

Afghanistan’s bowling unit was impressive throughout. Azmatullah Omarzai and Karim Janat picked up key wickets, while Fazalhaq Farooqui bowled with control at the death to ensure Pakistan couldn’t fully capitalize on the final overs.

Chasing 114, Afghanistan began aggressively through Hazratullah Zazai, who played a blistering knock of 44 off 20 balls, keeping the chase alive. However, once Zazai fell, Pakistan’s bowlers tightened the screws. Aamer Jamal and Haris Rauf struck crucial blows, while Shaheen Shah Afridi’s pace and Shadab Khan’s control created constant pressure on the Afghan middle order.

Despite a late fightback from Karim Janat (19 off 9 balls)*, Afghanistan lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually dismissed for 91 runs in 9.4 overs, falling short by 22 runs.

For his match-defining knock under pressure, Saud Shakeel was named Player of the Match. The victory gives Pakistan early momentum in Group B, while Afghanistan will take positives from their bowling effort as they look ahead to their upcoming fixtures in the World Cup 2026.