Welcome to IPL Star, your go-to spot for niche cricket news and in-depth updates. As cricket fans gear up for another exciting bilateral series, the Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I preview takes center stage. This opener in the three-match T20I series, set for January 19, 2026, promises fireworks in the UAE’s neutral grounds. Afghanistan, with their spin wizardry and rising stars, face a West Indies side looking to rebuild with power-packed batting.
Why does this match matter? Afghanistan has climbed the T20 ranks, often punching above their weight against top teams. West Indies, the two-time T20 World Cup champions, are in a transition phase but bring that Caribbean flair. Played in conditions that favor spin and dew, this clash could set the tone for the series and offer insights ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup.
In this complete match guide, we’ll dive into everything you need: detailed match info, venue breakdowns, pitch analysis, weather updates, squad dissections, probable lineups, standout players, head-to-head records, recent forms, and a bold winning prediction. Whether you’re a die-hard Afghanistan supporter or a West Indies loyalist, stick around for expert insights that make sense of the action.
Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I preview isn’t just about stats—it’s about the stories. Rashid Khan’s leadership against Brandon King’s captaincy. Explosive openers clashing with crafty bowlers. Let’s break it down step by step.
Match Details and Broadcast Guide
The series kicks off with the first T20I, part of Afghanistan’s “home” tour in the UAE due to ongoing situations back home. This neutral setup levels the playing field, but both teams have experience in these conditions from leagues like the ILT20.
Key Match Info:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Series | Afghanistan v West Indies in UAE, 2026 (3 T20Is) |
| Match | 1st T20I |
| Date | January 19, 2026 |
| Time | 6:30 PM Local (UAE time), 2:30 PM GMT, 8:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE |
The timings suit evening play, perfect for floodlit T20 cricket. Toss usually happens 30 minutes before the start, around 6:00 PM local time. Winning the toss could be huge—more on that later.
For fans wondering where to catch the action, broadcast options vary by region. In India, streaming is exclusive on FanCode, a popular platform for international cricket. No major TV channels have picked it up yet, so download the FanCode app for live coverage, highlights, and replays. Subscription starts at affordable rates, making it accessible for cricket enthusiasts.
Globally, check local broadcasters: In the Caribbean, it might air on Flow Sports or ESPN Caribbean. For the Middle East, CricLife could stream it. Always verify with official apps to avoid missing out.
Ticket buying is straightforward for those in the UAE. Head to official platforms like Q-Tickets or Platinumlist.ae. Prices range from AED 20 for general admission to AED 100+ for premium seats. Book early—Dubai’s stadium fills up for big games. Tips: Opt for online purchase to skip queues, and check for family packages if attending with kids.
This match details section sets the stage. Now, let’s explore the venue where all the drama unfolds.
Dubai International Cricket Stadium Guide: Stats, Records & History
Dubai International Cricket Stadium stands as a jewel in UAE cricket. Built in 2009, it’s known for its “Ring of Fire” floodlights that light up night games brilliantly. With a capacity of 25,000, it hosts everything from IPL matches to international tours. The ends are named Emirates Road End and Dubai Sports City End, and it’s the home ground for the UAE national team.
This stadium has seen iconic moments. Remember India’s record chase or Pakistan’s spin dominance? It’s a venue where history is made.
Let’s look at the numbers. Dubai favors balanced games but often tilts toward chases due to dew.
T20I Stats at Dubai International Cricket Stadium:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 89 |
| Wins Batting First | 39 |
| Wins Batting Second | 49 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 144 |
| Highest Total | 212/2 (India vs Afghanistan, 2024) |
| Lowest Total | 55 (West Indies vs England, 2021) |
| Highest Successful Chase | 184/8 (Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, 2022) |
| Most Runs | Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) – 1043 runs |
| Most Wickets | Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – 27 wickets |
These stats show Dubai’s evolution. Early on, it was batsman-friendly, but recent games highlight spinner impact. For instance, in the 2021 T20 World Cup, low scores were common as pitches wore down.
Domestic T20 Stats (Including ILT20 and IPL):
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | Over 250 |
| Average Score | 155-160 |
| Powerplay Average | 45 runs |
| Death Overs Economy | 9.5 runs/over |
| Spin Wickets Percentage | 45% |
Notable records include Chris Gayle’s explosive knocks for West Indies and Rashid Khan’s miserly spells. West Indies have played here multiple times, winning 60% of their T20Is. Afghanistan treats it like home, with a strong win rate.
The stadium’s facilities are top-notch: Modern dressing rooms, practice nets, and fan zones. If you’re visiting, arrive early to soak in the atmosphere.
History adds flavor. Dubai hosted the 2010 IPL final and parts of the 2021 World Cup. For this series, expect similar crowds—enthusiastic expat communities from South Asia and the Caribbean.
This venue guide highlights why Dubai suits T20 cricket. Next, we analyze the pitch and conditions that could swing the game.
Pitch Report and Surface Analysis
Dubai’s pitches are crafted from imported clay, offering true bounce initially. They start flat, allowing openers to score freely, but as the match progresses, the surface dries and grips.
In January, cooler weather means less wear, but spinners still thrive. The average score hovers around 160, but teams like Afghanistan can defend lower totals with their bowling.
Pitch Characteristics Breakdown:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Surface Type | Dry, grassy with even bounce |
| Batting Phase | Powerplay: Good for strokeplay; Middle overs: Grips for spin |
| Bowling Advantage | Spinners in overs 7-16; Pacers with cutters in death |
| Average Score | 155-165 (1st innings) |
| Recent Trend | Chases successful in 55% of games |
From recent ILT20 matches, we saw scores like 180+ when batsmen adapted, but bowlers dominated with variations. For AFG vs WI, expect Rashid Khan to exploit turn.
For more stats ESPN Cricinfo.
Dew Factor Impact in Dubai Night Matches
Dew is Dubai’s wildcard. In evening games, moisture settles after sunset, making the ball slippery. This hampers spinners’ grip and favors batsmen chasing.
January dew is moderate due to lower humidity (around 60%), but it’s still significant. Teams bowling second often struggle in the last 10 overs, with economy rates jumping 1-2 runs per over.
Dew Impact Stats:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Dew Onset | Around 8 PM local |
| Bowling Effect | Spinners lose 20% effectiveness |
| Chasing Win Rate | 55% in night games |
| Recent Example | ILT20 2025: 4/5 chases succeeded due to dew |
Captains monitor this closely. If dew is heavy, batting second becomes a no-brainer.
Toss Prediction and Strategic Impact
Toss prediction: 60% chance the winner elects to bowl first. Why? Dew and historical data show chases win more. Brandon King or Rashid Khan will likely chase if they win.
Strategic impact is massive. Batting first? Post 170+ to pressure the chasers. Bowling first? Restrict to under 150, then bat under lights.
In UAE conditions, toss winners have a 52% win rate overall. For this match, it could decide the outcome if dew plays up.
Weather Forecast for 1st T20I – Dubai, 19 January 2026
Weather can make or break a cricket match. For January 19, 2026, in Dubai, forecasts look promising for uninterrupted play.
Daytime highs reach 23-24°C, dropping to 15-18°C by evening. Clear skies dominate, with minimal cloud cover.
Hour-by-Hour Forecast (Local Time):
| Time | Temperature | Conditions | Humidity | Wind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 PM (Toss) | 20°C | Clear | 55% | 10 km/h NW |
| 7:00 PM (Start) | 18°C | Clear | 60% | 12 km/h |
| 8:00 PM | 17°C | Partly cloudy | 65% | 8 km/h |
| 9:00 PM | 16°C | Clear | 70% | 5 km/h |
| 10:00 PM (End) | 15°C | Clear | 68% | 6 km/h SE |
Chance of rain: 0-5%. Wind is light, not affecting play much. Humidity rises slightly, aiding dew formation.
Typical January in Dubai is dry and pleasant—ideal for cricket. No dust storms expected. Fans can enjoy without weather worries.
This forecast boosts confidence for a full 40 overs. Now, onto the teams.
Official Squads and Latest Team News
Both squads blend experience and youth. Afghanistan relies on spin depth, West Indies on batting firepower.
Afghanistan Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Rashid Khan (c) | Bowling Allrounder |
| Ibrahim Zadran (vc) | Opening Batter |
| Abdollah Ahmadzai | Bowler |
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Allrounder |
| Darwish Rasooli | Top order Batter |
| Fazalhaq Farooqi | Bowler |
| Gulbadin Naib | Batting Allrounder |
| Mohammad Ishaq | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Mohammad Nabi | Allrounder |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | Bowler |
| Noor Ahmad | Bowler |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Sediqullah Atal | Opening Batter |
| Shahidullah | Batting Allrounder |
| Ziaur Rahman | Bowler |
Team news: Naveen-ul-Haq is injured, so Fazalhaq Farooqi leads pace. Rashid Khan is fit, boosting morale. No major absences.
West Indies Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Brandon King (c) | Top order Batter |
| Alick Athanaze | Top order Batter |
| Keacy Carty | Batter |
| Johnson Charles | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Matthew Forde | Bowler |
| Justin Greaves | Allrounder |
| Shimron Hetmyer | Middle order Batter |
| Amir Jangoo | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Shamar Joseph | Bowler |
| Evin Lewis | Opening Batter |
| Gudakesh Motie | Bowler |
| Khary Pierre | Allrounder |
| Quentin Sampson | Batter |
| Jayden Seales | Bowler |
| Ramon Simmonds | Bowler |
| Shamar Springer | Allrounder |
Team news: Evin Lewis and Shamar Joseph return from injury. Quentin Sampson debuts after CPL success. Key misses: Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein (SA20), Jason Holder (rest). This is a young squad for World Cup prep.
Strengths: Afghanistan’s spin quartet (Rashid, Mujeeb, Noor, Nabi) is world-class. West Indies boast hitters like Lewis and Hetmyer.
Weaknesses: Afghanistan’s pace lacks depth without Naveen. West Indies miss spin options with Hosein out.
This squad analysis shows balance favors Afghanistan in UAE.
Afghanistan Probable Playing XI & Tactical Approach
Afghanistan’s XI focuses on spin dominance and explosive starts.
Probable XI:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Sediqullah Atal
- Darwish Rasooli
- Mohammad Nabi
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Gulbadin Naib
- Rashid Khan (c)
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Noor Ahmad
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
Tactics: Open with aggression—Gurbaz targets powerplay boundaries. Middle overs: Nabi and Omarzai stabilize. Bowling: Early pace from Farooqi, then spin trio to choke runs. Death: Omarzai’s variations.
In UAE, they adapt well, using experience from leagues. Aim to post 160+ or restrict under 150.
West Indies Probable Playing XI & Tactical Approach
Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 West Indies go for power-hitting.
Probable XI:
- Evin Lewis
- Brandon King (c)
- Johnson Charles (wk)
- Shimron Hetmyer
- Alick Athanaze
- Justin Greaves
- Shamar Springer
- Gudakesh Motie
- Shamar Joseph
- Jayden Seales
- Ramon Simmonds
Tactics: Explosive openers Lewis and King set tone. Middle: Hetmyer finishes strong. Bowling: Pace from Joseph and Seales early, Motie in middle. Challenge: Counter Afghanistan spin with sweeps.
They’ll target big totals if batting first, or chase aggressively with dew help.
Comparing balances: Afghanistan’s spin edges in conditions, but WI’s batting could explode.
Key Players to Watch
Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 These stars could turn the game.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG) – Wicketkeeper Batter
Gurbaz is Afghanistan’s firestarter. Recent stats: 286 runs in 9 matches at 31.78 avg, 149.73 SR. His six-hitting ability pressures bowlers. Against WI, expect him to attack pacers.
Ibrahim Zadran (AFG) – Opening Batter
Vice-captain Zadran anchors innings. 259 runs in 9 games at 32.38 avg. Steady in chases, he builds partnerships.
Rashid Khan (AFG) – Captain & Bowler
The leg-spin maestro: 12 wickets in 8 matches at 5.34 econ. In Dubai, his googlies are lethal. Leads with 182 T20I wickets overall.
Azmatullah Omarzai (AFG) – Allrounder
Omarzai’s dual threat: 11 wickets in 8 games at 6.32 econ, plus handy batting. Key in death overs.
Evin Lewis (WI) – Opening Batter
Returning from injury, Lewis smashes openers. Known for quick fifties, he could counter spin.
Shimron Hetmyer (WI) – Middle Order Batter
Hetmyer’s finishing: Powerful against pace and spin. Vital for WI’s middle order.
Shamar Joseph (WI) – Bowler
Pace sensation: 15 wickets in 12 T20Is. His bounce suits Dubai.
Gudakesh Motie (WI) – Bowler
Left-arm spin: Provides control. Could challenge Afghan batsmen.
These players embody the battles ahead.
Head-to-Head Record in T20Is
Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 AFG and WI have clashed 8 times in T20Is, with WI leading 5-3.
Last 5 Matches:
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| Jun 18, 2024 | West Indies won by 104 runs |
| Nov 17, 2019 | Afghanistan won by 29 runs |
| Nov 16, 2019 | Afghanistan won by 41 runs |
| Nov 14, 2019 | West Indies won by 30 runs |
| Jun 6, 2017 | West Indies won by 7 wickets |
WI dominated recently, but AFG won back-to-back in 2019. In neutral venues, it’s even.
Recent Form and Momentum
Afghanistan Form (Last 5): W W W L W
Wins over Zimbabwe and Qatar show momentum. Loss to Bangladesh highlights chase issues.
West Indies Form (Last 5): L L NR L W
Struggles vs New Zealand, but win over Bangladesh boosts. Inconsistent, but potential.
AFG enters with better form.
Detailed Match Prediction
Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 Analyzing factors: AFG’s spin suits Dubai, form is superior. WI’s batting could upset if they handle dew.
7 Key Battles:
- Gurbaz vs Joseph: Opener vs pacer.
- Rashid vs Hetmyer: Spin vs power.
- Omarzai vs Lewis: Allrounder duel.
- Nabi vs Motie: Experience clash.
- Farooqi vs King: Early wickets.
- Noor vs Athanaze: Young spin vs batter.
- Naib vs Seales: Middle-order fight.
Prediction: Afghanistan wins by 20-30 runs or 6 wickets. 65% chance for AFG. If WI bats first and posts 180+, they could steal it.
Final Thoughts
Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 This Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I preview highlights an exciting contest. AFG’s balance gives them the edge, but never count out WI’s flair. Stay tuned to IPL Star for live updates. What are your thoughts? Share in comments!
Frequently Asked Questions: Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026
- When is the Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 scheduled? Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 The Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I takes place on January 19, 2026, at 6:30 PM local time (UAE), which is 8:00 PM IST and 2:30 PM GMT, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
- Where can I watch the AFG vs WI 1st T20I live streaming in India? In India, the Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I live streaming is available exclusively on FanCode. Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 There are no confirmed TV broadcasts, so the FanCode app or website is the best option for live coverage, highlights, and replays.
- What is the probable playing XI for Afghanistan in the 1st T20I vs West Indies? Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 Afghanistan’s probable XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
- What is the probable playing XI for West Indies in the AFG vs WI 1st T20I? Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 West Indies’ probable XI: Evin Lewis, Brandon King (c), Johnson Charles (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Alick Athanaze, Justin Greaves, Shamar Springer, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, Ramon Simmonds.
- Who are the key players to watch in the Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I? Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 Standout players include Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, and Azmatullah Omarzai for Afghanistan, and Evin Lewis, Shimron Hetmyer, Shamar Joseph, and Gudakesh Motie for West Indies.
- What is the head-to-head record between Afghanistan and West Indies in T20Is? In 8 T20I encounters, West Indies lead 5-3. Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 Their most recent meeting (June 2024) saw West Indies win by 104 runs, while Afghanistan won back-to-back games in November 2019.
- What is the Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch report for the AFG vs WI 1st T20I? Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 The Dubai pitch offers early pace and bounce, becomes slower in the middle overs favoring spin, and often assists chasing teams due to dew. Average first-innings score is around 155–165.
- How will the dew factor impact the Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I in Dubai? Dew typically sets in after 8 PM local time, making the ball slippery and reducing spinner effectiveness. Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 This gives a clear advantage to the team batting second, with chasing sides winning ~55% of night games.
- What is the weather forecast for the Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I on 19 January 2026? Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 Clear skies are expected with temperatures between 15–20°C during the match, humidity around 55–70%, light winds, and virtually no chance of rain—ideal conditions for a full game.
- Who is likely to win the Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I according to the preview? Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20I 2026 The preview favors Afghanistan to win by 20–30 runs or 6 wickets (65% chance), citing their superior spin attack, better recent form, and adaptation to UAE conditions, though West Indies’ batting firepower could cause an upset if they post or chase a big total.