Afghanistan and West Indies begin their three-match T20I series at Dubai International Cricket Stadium with both sides using the contest as a key build-up fixture ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. With several first-choice players returning on both sides, the opener promises a competitive contest between spin strength and power hitting.
The opening match of the series places Afghanistan’s improving T20 unit against a West Indies side looking to regain rhythm after a long gap in international cricket.
Match details
Match Afghanistan vs West Indies, 1st T20I
Series West Indies and Afghanistan in UAE 2026
Date Monday, January 19
Venue Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Start time 8:00 PM IST, 7:30 PM PST, 2:30 PM GMT
Team Overview: Afghanistan
Afghanistan enter the series with a near full-strength squad and clear focus on collective improvement rather than individual brilliance. Rashid Khan returns from franchise duty to lead the side, bringing experience and tactical sharpness back into the group. The Afghan batting relies heavily on early momentum from Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, while the middle order features stability through Mohammad Nabi and all-round depth via Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib.
Afghanistan’s bowling remains their strongest asset. Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad form a spin trio well suited to Dubai conditions, where grip and control often decide matches. Fazalhaq Farooqi provides variation with the new ball and at the death, making Afghanistan a well-balanced T20 outfit.
Team Overview: West Indies
West Indies return to T20I action after last playing New Zealand in November 2025. Brandon King takes charge in the absence of Shai Hope, offering leadership and consistency at the top of the order. The return of Evin Lewis adds explosive potential in the powerplay, while Johnson Charles and Shimron Hetmyer strengthen the batting core.
The Windies bowling attack features pace depth with Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde, supported by spin options Gudakesh Motie and Khary Pierre. While West Indies possess power across the lineup, adaptability against quality spin will determine how effectively they perform in Dubai.
Head-to-Head Record
Afghanistan and West Indies have faced each other eight times in T20 internationals. West Indies hold a narrow edge with five wins, while Afghanistan have claimed three victories. Their most recent meeting came during the 2024 T20 World Cup, highlighting how evenly matched the sides have become in recent years.
Pitch Report and Conditions
Dubai International Cricket Stadium traditionally offers balanced conditions early before slowing down as the match progresses. Teams chasing have enjoyed a slightly better success rate here. The surface tends to assist spinners during the middle overs as the ball grips and comes slower onto the bat. The average first-innings score at the venue stands at 140, suggesting that disciplined bowling and smart batting rotations will be crucial.
Probable Playing XIs
Afghanistan
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (captain), Mohammad Ishaq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Noor Ahmad
West Indies
Evin Lewis, Johnson Charles (wk), Brandon King (captain), Shimron Hetmyer, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, Khary Pierre
Key Players to Watch
Rahmanullah Gurbaz remains Afghanistan’s most dangerous batting option. His ability to attack spin and pace alike can set the tone early. Rashid Khan’s impact goes beyond wickets, as his control in the middle overs often dictates the flow of the game. For West Indies, Evin Lewis and Shimron Hetmyer provide match-winning potential, while Shamar Joseph’s pace can trouble batters if he finds rhythm.
Broadcast and Live Streaming Details
The AFG vs WI 1st T20I will be available for live streaming on FanCode through its website and mobile app in India and Pakistan. Global viewers can also access the match via FanCode’s digital platforms where available. As of match day, no official television broadcast has been confirmed in the UK or Australia, with digital streaming remaining the primary viewing option.
Match Prediction
Afghanistan appear slightly better suited to the Dubai conditions due to their experienced spin attack and familiarity with slower surfaces. West Indies possess greater raw power, but their effectiveness will depend on handling spin during the middle overs. If Afghanistan control that phase and post a competitive total, they hold a marginal advantage. Expect a close contest, with Afghanistan starting as slight favorites based on balance and conditions.
