Separate Seating for Pakistan, Afghanistan Fans in Sharjah Ahead of Tri-Series Opener
Sharjah boosts security for Afghanistan-Pakistan tri-series opener with separate enclosures, routes, and ticketing.
The Sharjah Cricket Stadium will host the opening match of the T20I tri-series on August 29, with Afghanistan taking on Pakistan. Ahead of the high-profile contest, strict security measures have been put in place to avoid fan trouble.
Separate enclosures, entry, and exit routes have been arranged for supporters of both teams. Ticketing has also been divided, with blue passes for Afghan fans and green passes for Pakistani fans.
The decision comes after clashes broke out between the two sets of fans during a 2022 T20I in Sharjah. Similar precautions were later taken when the teams met in the UAE in 2023.
Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan urged fans to show restraint. He appealed for discipline, unity, and respect in the stands, saying the focus should stay on cricket rather than conflict.
On the field, the match is expected to be intense, with challenging pitch conditions adding to the contest. Pakistan lead the T20I head-to-head 4-3, though Afghanistan have steadily narrowed the gap.
The tri-series, featuring UAE as the third team, will also serve as final preparation for the Asia Cup 2025, which will be held in the Emirates.
