With qualification hopes already decided, Afghanistan and Canada meet in a pride-on-the-line contest as the group stage reaches its closing stretch. The penultimate league match offers both sides a final opportunity to restore confidence and finish the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on a positive note.
Match details
Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium
Date: Wednesday, February 19
Time: 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, 1:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
Afghanistan
Afghanistan entered the tournament with expectations of making a deep run but saw their Super Eight hopes fade after narrow defeats against South Africa and New Zealand. Despite competitive displays, the Rashid Khan-led side failed to close out key moments, which ultimately pushed them out of contention in the 20-team event.
Even with elimination confirmed, Afghanistan still carry significant quality in their squad. Their top order has produced runs against strong attacks, while their bowling unit continues to pose problems with variety and discipline. The match in Chennai gives them a chance to sign off with intent and remind opponents of their ability to challenge top sides on slower surfaces.
Canada
Canada endured a difficult campaign and struggled to find rhythm across all departments. Their tournament began with a heavy 57-run defeat to South Africa, followed by consecutive losses against the United Arab Emirates and New Zealand. Those results exposed inconsistencies with both bat and ball, leaving them winless heading into their final group fixture.
Led by Dilpreet Bajwa, Canada will aim to avoid finishing the competition empty-handed. A strong showing against Afghanistan would not only lift morale but also provide valuable experience for a squad still adapting to the demands of top-level international tournaments.
Key players
For Afghanistan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz remains the standout batter. The aggressive opener has scored 110 runs in three matches and produced a memorable 84 against South Africa earlier in the tournament. His ability to dominate powerplay overs gives Afghanistan early momentum and sets the tone for the innings.
With the ball, Azmatullah Omarzai has impressed through control and timely breakthroughs. The right-arm pacer has picked up eight wickets in three matches and consistently delivered under pressure. His impact in the middle overs could prove decisive on a surface that rewards smart bowling.
Canada will look towards experienced campaigners such as Navneet Dhaliwal and Nicholas Kirton to anchor the batting, while their bowling unit must show greater discipline to stay competitive.
Head-to-head record
Afghanistan and Canada have faced each other twice in T20 internationals, with Afghanistan winning both encounters. There have been no ties or no-results. The first meeting took place on February 4, 2010, and the most recent clash occurred on March 18, 2012, both resulting in victories for Afghanistan.
Pitch report
The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai remains one of the most storied venues in world cricket. In T20 internationals, the surface has shown a tendency to assist chasing teams, and similar conditions are expected for this fixture. The pitch usually slows down as the match progresses, placing a premium on timing rather than power. Dew is unlikely to influence proceedings, which keeps the contest balanced across both innings.
Probable match scenarios
If Afghanistan bat first, they will aim for a strong powerplay through Gurbaz before consolidating in the middle overs. Their spin-heavy attack will then look to apply pressure and defend a competitive total.
If Canada bat first, they must prioritize partnerships and avoid early collapses. A steady start could allow them to post a total that tests Afghanistan’s batting depth, although sustained pressure from Afghan bowlers remains likely.
Probable playing XIs
Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Gulbadin Naib, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (captain), Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Canada: Yuvraj Singh Samra, Dilpreet Bajwa (captain), Navneet Dhaliwal, Nicholas Kirton, Harsh Thaker, Dilon Heyliger, Shreyas Movva (wicketkeeper), Saad Bin Zafar, Shivam Sharma, Jaskaran Singh, Ansh Patel
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will air on JioStar Network Channels, with live streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website. Audiences in Pakistan, the UK, Australia, and other regions can follow the game through official ICC broadcast partners and authorized digital platforms in their respective territories.
Match prediction
Afghanistan enter the contest as favorites due to superior experience, stronger bowling resources, and proven match-winners. Canada may compete in patches, but Afghanistan’s depth and familiarity with subcontinental conditions should help them secure a victory.
