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Authorities in Sharjah have rolled out strict security measures ahead of the much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and Afghanistan in the upcoming tri-nation T20I series, scheduled to begin later this month.
The decision comes in light of previous crowd disturbances during matches between the two sides, with organisers aiming to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for fans attending the games.
To avoid any incidents of unrest, Pakistan and Afghanistan supporters will be allocated separate stands and entry points at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Ticket sales are also being managed based on nationality, with designated seating areas to be enforced throughout the tournament.
With a capacity crowd expected at the 16,000-seat venue, the move is part of broader efforts to maintain order as cricketing tensions between the two nations continue to simmer.
Pakistan and Afghanistan have faced each other in seven T20Is so far, with the Green Shirts winning four and Afghanistan claiming three victories.
The tri-nation series, which also features the hosts, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), will run from August 29 to September 7, with all matches set to be played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
The series was initially planned as a bilateral affair between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) proposed expanding it into a tri-nation event to provide all three teams with valuable match practice ahead of the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup, which kicks off on September 9 in the UAE.
The series will open with a marquee showdown between Pakistan and Afghanistan on August 29 at 7:00 PM local time.
Each team will play the other twice, with the top two sides progressing to the final on September 7.
Tri-Nation T20I Series Schedule
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