Afghanistan v West Indies in UAE, 2026

Afghanistan vs West Indies, 3rd T20I

Thursday, January 22, 2026
08:00 PM IST
Afganistan cricket

Afghanistan

vs
West indies Cricket

West Indies

Match Prediction

The third T20I clash between Afghanistan and West Indies at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium promises to be a thrilling contest. Afghanistan come into this match buoyed by their recent form in the series, with their spinners exploiting subcontinental conditions effectively while the batting lineup has shown consistent aggression at the top order. West Indies, on the other hand, rely heavily on their explosive batting and pace attack, though their recent middle-order instability could be a point of concern. In head-to-head T20 meetings, both teams have shared victories, but Afghanistan's adaptation to UAE conditions has given them a slight edge in this series. Key performers for Afghanistan include star spinner Rashid Khan, whose ability to contain runs and pick wickets in middle overs remains vital, and top-order batsman Mohammad Nabi, who anchors the innings while ensuring a healthy strike rate. West Indies boasts powerful hitters like Shimron Hetmyer and experienced pacer Kemar Roach who can change the game's momentum with their individual brilliance. Strategy-wise, Afghanistan will look to maximize powerplay scoring with openers like Hazratullah Zazai while curtailing West Indies' firepower through disciplined spin bowling in the middle overs. West Indies will aim to leverage their death bowling expertise in the final overs to restrict Afghanistan and utilize their batting depth to chase down targets. Given current form, conditions, and squad balance, Afghanistan have a slight advantage but West Indies' unpredictability keeps them in the game.

AI suggested match winner

Afghanistan: 57%, West Indies: 43%

Score Prediction

If Afghanistan bat first on this UAE pitch known for its slow turn, they are likely to post a competitive total in the range of 165-175 runs. Their aggressive top order combined with Rashid Khan’s bowling strength may encourage a solid but controlled batting approach. Conversely, if West Indies bat first, their propensity for explosive hitting in the powerplay and death overs could see them reach around 170-180 runs. However, the pitch's slow nature might limit their scoring, particularly if spin bowling curtails their middle overs. Both teams can expect a totals range of 165-180 reflective of a balanced pitch favoring spin bowling slightly.

Dubai International Cricket Stadium - Pitch Report

The Dubai International Cricket Stadium traditionally offers a slow, dry pitch with significant turn for spinners as the game progresses. Historically, the average first-innings total here is around 165 runs in T20 matches, with chasing sides having a slight advantage due to predictable conditions. Weather forecast indicates clear skies with temperatures around 25°C at game time, meaning no interruption. The ground stats show spin bowlers dominate; Rashid Khan holds the best bowling figures for Afghanistan with 4/15 on this ground. For West Indies, Kieron Pollard has been the most successful batsman scoring quickfire knocks up to 75* here. The highest team total recorded here among these teams is West Indies’ 185, suggesting conditions are conducive to competitive cricket but require tactical batting.
Our betting tips for this match
Back Afghanistan if they bat first; the spin-friendly track favors their bowling attack.
Watch the powerplay overs closely; a high-scoring opening partnership is key for West Indies.
Consider betting on total runs between 165-180 given balanced pitch conditions.

Afghanistan vs West Indies - Head to Head Record in T20

Total MatchesAfghanistan WinsWest Indies Wins
1266

Team Recent Performance

TeamLast 5 Matches
AfghanistanW W L W L
West IndiesL W L W W

Players to Watch

Rashid Khan: In phenomenal form, Rashid continues to bamboozle batsmen with his craft on spinning tracks, making him vital for Afghanistan’s bowling attack.

Mohammad Nabi: Consistent middle-order scorer and handy spinner, Nabi’s experience in UAE conditions adds balance to Afghanistan’s side.

Hazratullah Zazai: Explosive opener whose aggressive starts have set the tone for Afghanistan’s batting in recent matches.

Shimron Hetmyer: Potent batsman with the capability to dismantle bowling line-ups quickly, Hetmyer has been the West Indies’ key run-scorer recently.

Kemar Roach: Senior pacer with wicket-taking ability in middle and death overs, Roach’s form could swing the momentum for West Indies.

Kieron Pollard: Experienced all-rounder known for finishing games; his form in UAE conditions with the bat is crucial for West Indies’ success.