New Delhi, Aug. 27 -- Afghanistan are set to kick off their preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 with a T20I tri-series against Pakistan and the UAE, beginning on Friday in Sharjah. The tournament offers the Afghan side an ideal opportunity to fine-tune their combinations and gather vital insights on one of their Asia Cup opponents, Pakistan, before the continental tournament begins, as per ESPNcricinfo.

The selectors have stuck with almost the same squad for both competitions, with only Naveen-ul-Haq missing from the tri-series line-up. In his place, Abdollah Ahmadzai has been drafted into the 17-member squad. The 22-year-old fast bowler, who has picked up 14 wickets in 10 T20s, is yet to make his international debut and has also...