A Historic Clash in Doha
Cricket fans witnessed an exciting contest when Afghanistan faced Qatar in a one-off T20 International match at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium, Doha, on 11 November 2025.
This match wasn’t just about runs and wickets—it marked a key moment in Qatar’s cricket journey and showcased Afghanistan’s dominance in the shorter format.
The fixture was part of Afghanistan’s tour of Qatar 2025, designed to promote cricket in the Gulf region and strengthen ties between Asian teams. With passionate supporters on both sides, the stadium atmosphere was electrifying from the first ball to the last.
Match Overvie
- Match: Qatar vs Afghanistan – Only T20I
- Date: 11 November 2025
- Venue: West End Park International Cricket Stadium, Doha, Qatar
- Toss: Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first
- Result: Afghanistan won by 25 runs
- Player of the Match: Darwish Rasooli (Afghanistan) – 66 off 37 balls
Afghanistan entered the match as favorites, but Qatar was determined to make an impression on home soil. Both teams displayed moments of brilliance, but Afghanistan’s depth and experience ultimately sealed the victory.
Afghanistan’s Innings: A Steady Start and Late Acceleration
Afghanistan’s decision to bat first proved wise. Despite losing early wickets, Darwish Rasooli, the Afghan captain, anchored the innings with a commanding 66 runs off 37 balls, hitting elegant drives and powerful sixes that thrilled the spectators.
- Afghanistan Total: 149/8 in 20 overs
- Top Performers:
- Darwish Rasooli – 66 (37 balls, 8 fours, 3 sixes)
- Mohammad Ishaq – 22 (28 balls)
- Nangeyalia Kharote – 23* (12 balls)
Qatar’s bowlers made good use of the conditions early on, especially with spin. However, Rasooli’s fearless stroke play and Kharote’s finishing touch in the final overs ensured Afghanistan posted a competitive total.
Qatar Bowling Figures
- Muhammad Tanveer – 2/25 (4 overs)
- Gayan Munaweera – 1/21 (3 overs)
- Mohammed Nadeem – 1/28 (4 overs)
Qatar’s bowlers showed promise but struggled to maintain consistent pressure during the death overs, allowing Afghanistan to score crucial boundaries.
Qatar’s Chase: Promising Start, Faltering Finish
Chasing 150 runs, Qatar started positively, with Mirza Mohammed Baig and Muhammad Asim building a steady partnership. However, disciplined bowling from Afghanistan turned the tide midway through the innings.
- Qatar Total: 124/7 in 20 overs
- Top Scorers:
- Mirza Mohammed Baig – 26 (21 balls)
- Muhammad Asim – 19 (17 balls)
- Tamoor Sajjad – 18 (22 balls)
Afghanistan’s bowling attack was clinical, led by Owais Ahmed, who picked up 4 wickets for 29 runs. His variations and yorkers at crucial moments kept the Qatari batsmen guessing.
Afghanistan Bowling Figures
- Owais Ahmed – 4/29 (4 overs)
- Noor Ahmad – 2/20 (4 overs)
- Fazalhaq Farooqi – 1/27 (4 overs)
Despite the home crowd’s support, Qatar couldn’t maintain momentum, losing wickets at regular intervals. The required run rate climbed beyond reach, sealing Afghanistan’s victory by 25 runs.
Key Turning Points
- Rasooli’s Captain’s Knock: His 66 off 37 balls changed the match’s momentum after early setbacks.
- Owais Ahmed’s Double Strike: His two quick wickets in the middle overs crippled Qatar’s chase.
- Death Over Discipline: Afghanistan’s bowlers executed yorkers perfectly, conceding just 20 runs in the last three overs.
Match Analysis and Takeaways
For Afghanistan: Building Momentum for Upcoming Series
This win reinforced Afghanistan’s reputation as a formidable T20 side. Their balance between aggressive batting and strategic bowling shows their growing maturity. The emergence of domestic talents like Darwish Rasooli adds depth beyond their star players.
For Qatar: A Step Forward in International Cricket
Although Qatar lost, the team’s performance showed significant progress. Competing toe-to-toe with a top-tier side like Afghanistan proves that Qatar’s cricket structure is developing well. The exposure from this international fixture will inspire local players and attract more youth to the sport.
Stadium & Pitch Report: West End Park, Doha
The West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha is becoming a preferred venue for international fixtures in the Gulf. The pitch offered a fair contest between bat and ball—initially helping seamers before slowing down for spinners. The evening dew added a layer of challenge for both captains, influencing the decision to bat first.
The ground’s modern facilities and fan turnout demonstrate Qatar’s growing passion for cricket ahead of future international hosting ambitions.
Player of the Match: Darwish Rasooli
Darwish Rasooli was deservedly named Player of the Match for his superb 66 off 37 balls. His innings was a blend of class and controlled aggression, setting up Afghanistan’s innings perfectly. As captain, his leadership stood out—balancing calm composure with sharp tactical awareness.
Final Score Summary
| Team | Score | Overs | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan | 149/8 | 20.0 | Won by 25 runs |
| Qatar | 124/7 | 20.0 | — |
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Conclusion
The Afghanistan vs Qatar T20I 2025 was a competitive and memorable encounter that showcased the expanding reach of cricket across the Gulf region. Afghanistan’s disciplined performance under pressure highlighted their strength as a developing powerhouse in T20 cricket. Meanwhile, Qatar’s spirited display underlined their progress and ambition to establish themselves on the global cricket map.
As the sport continues to grow in Qatar, matches like this serve as a testament to the region’s cricketing future and the power of sports to unite nations.
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