Afghanistan vs West Indies, 2nd T20I

The second T20I between Afghanistan and West Indies promises intense competition at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Afghanistan, buoyed by their strong recent form in subcontinental conditions, come into this match after a closely contested first game. Their spin attack, led by Rashid Khan, and dynamic batting from Mohammad Nabi have been pivotal. West Indies, known for their explosive batting lineup with the likes of Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer, will look to capitalize on their power-hitting, especially in the middle overs. Historically, the two teams have shared a competitive head-to-head record in T20Is, with West Indies slightly edging Afghanistan overall. Strategically, Afghanistan may focus on controlling the tempo with tight bowling in the powerplay, utilizing spin early to choke runs, while West Indies will aim at maximizing their death-over prowess to set or chase a big total. Field placements and death bowling execution will be critical given both teams’ tendency to either accelerate or lose momentum rapidly in the shortest format. Considering both teams’ recent performances, adaptability in conditions, and individual matchups, the game could go either way but the slight edge might rest with Afghanistan due to familiarity with UAE conditions and a more balanced bowling unit.

Winning Probability: Afghanistan: 55%, West Indies: 45%

If Afghanistan bat first, expect them to post a competitive total in the range of 165-175 runs. Their batting depth and ability to rotate strike on a balanced pitch should deliver a strong platform. Conversely, if West Indies bat first, the score prediction settles around 170-180 runs leveraging their heavy hitters who thrive on subcontinental pitches that assist stroke play. The Dubai pitch generally offers true bounce with a hint of assistance to spinners, encouraging both sides to aim for the 170+ mark for a winning chance.

The Dubai International Cricket Stadium features a dry, slow-paced surface that generally assists spinners as the game progresses. Historically, the average first-innings score here in T20Is is around 165 runs. Teams batting second have successfully chased down targets approximately 52% of the time, emphasizing the importance of a good start with the ball. Recent weather forecasts indicate clear skies with minimal chance of rain and temperatures around 22-25°C during the match, favorable for a full game. Rashid Khan holds the best bowling figures at this venue among the two, with a memorable 4/12. In terms of batting, Shimron Hetmyer registered the highest individual score for West Indies in Dubai, with an unbeaten 85. This ground has been a balanced contest arena with performances swinging towards spinners in the second innings.

Matches Played	Afghanistan Wins	West Indies Wins
12	5	7

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches Record (W-L)
Afghanistan	4-1
West Indies	3-2

Rashid Khan: Continues to be Afghanistan's linchpin with his mystery spin and wickets, recently taking crucial scalps in the powerplay overs.

Mohammad Nabi: Offers all-round balance; his recent form with the bat has been solid with quickfire cameos and economical spells.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Afghanistan's opening batsman, known for explosive starts, recently scored a rapid half-century setting good platforms.

Nicholas Pooran: The West Indies captain has been in blistering touch, anchoring innings with a mix of elegance and aggressive hitting.

Shimron Hetmyer: Key power hitter, recently scored a commanding 85* in UAE conditions showing great adaptability.

Jason Holder: Veteran all-rounder provides experience with tight bowling at the death and handy contributions with the bat.