The three-match T20I series between Afghanistan and West Indies begins today with the opening clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching fast, both teams will use this series to fine-tune their combinations.
Afghanistan will rely heavily on their world-class spin attack, while West Indies bring raw power, pace, and experience in the shortest format. The first match is expected to be closely fought, especially under Dubai’s night conditions.
AFG vs WI 1st T20i Match Details
| Match | Afghanistan vs West Indies, 1st T20I |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, 19 January 2026 |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Toss Time | 7:30 PM IST |
| Match Start | 8:00 PM IST |
| Live Streaming (India) | FanCode (Free) |
| TV Broadcast (India) | Not available |
| Live Score | ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz |
AFG vs WI Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
Afghanistan and West Indies have faced each other several times in T20 internationals, with the contests usually going down to the wire.
| Matches | WI Wins | AFG Wins | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 5 | 3 | 0 |
- Last 5 T20Is: West Indies 3 wins, Afghanistan 2 wins
- In UAE conditions, Afghanistan have been more competitive due to spin-friendly pitches.
Also see: Global Cricket League (GCL) 2026
AFG vs WI Pitch Report: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
The Dubai pitch generally offers something for both batters and bowlers.
- Early overs: Good bounce and movement for fast bowlers
- Middle overs: Pitch slows down, spinners get strong grip and turn
- Average first-innings score: 165–180
- Dew factor: Likely in the second innings, making chasing slightly easier
- Toss advantage: Teams usually prefer to bowl first
Weather: Clear sky, temperature around 22–25°C, no rain expected.
Also see: PSL Embraces Auction Era From 2026
AFG vs WI Probable Playing XI
Afghanistan (Likely XI)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Sediqullah Atal
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Gulbadin Naib
- Mohammad Nabi
- Darwish Rasooli
- Rashid Khan (c)
- Noor Ahmad
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman / Naveen-ul-Haq
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
West Indies (Likely XI)
- Brandon King (c)
- Evin Lewis
- Johnson Charles (wk)
- Shimron Hetmyer
- Keacy Carty
- Justin Greaves
- Gudakesh Motie
- Shamar Joseph
- Jayden Seales
- Matthew Forde
- Akeal Hosein
Match Preview & Key Talking Points
Afghanistan’s strength lies in their spin trio of Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi, who can control the middle overs on a slow Dubai surface. If they strike early, West Indies’ power hitters could struggle.
West Indies, however, have match-winners like Shimron Hetmyer and Evin Lewis, capable of changing the game in a few overs. Their pace attack will also look to exploit the new ball under lights.
Where to Watch AFG vs WI 1st T20I Live (Free)
- Live Streaming (India): FanCode app & website (free access)
- Live Scores: ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz
