The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 enters a crucial stage in Group D as Afghanistan take on United Arab Emirates in Match 28 on February 16 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The match will begin at 11:00 AM IST, with the toss scheduled for 10:30 AM.
This is a must-win game for Afghanistan, who have lost both their matches so far against New Zealand and South Africa, including a heartbreaking defeat in a Super Over. With zero points and a negative net run rate, another loss could end their hopes of reaching the Super 8 stage.
UAE, meanwhile, have one win and one loss from their two matches. A victory here will keep them firmly in the race. With New Zealand and South Africa already qualified from the group, this contest becomes a direct battle between two teams fighting to stay alive in the tournament.
Match Details
| Match | Afghanistan vs UAE, Match 28 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Date | 16 February 2026 |
| Time | 11:00 AM IST (Toss: 10:30 AM) |
| Venue | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar (App & Website) |
| TV Broadcast | Star Sports Network |
Afghanistan Team Preview
Afghanistan have been competitive despite their results and will be eager to convert performances into a win. Their strength lies in their world-class spin attack and aggressive top order.
Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran are capable of giving quick starts, while experienced all-rounders Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai provide balance in the middle order.
The spin trio of Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad could be the biggest advantage for Afghanistan, especially in the middle overs where they can control the scoring rate and pick crucial wickets.
Also see: AFG vs UAE Toss Prediction Match 28th T20 World Cup 2026
UAE Team Preview
UAE come into this match with confidence after registering a win over Canada earlier in the tournament. Captain Muhammad Waseem will be the key batter at the top, while Alishan Sharafu has shown good form and stability.
The bowling unit, led by Junaid Siddique and supported by a mix of pace and spin options, will need to deliver a disciplined performance to contain Afghanistan’s aggressive batting lineup.
If UAE manage early breakthroughs and build partnerships with the bat, they could challenge their higher-ranked opponents.
Also see: AFG vs UAE Dream11 Prediction Today Match 28th
AFG vs UAE Head-to-Head (T20Is)
| Matches Played | Afghanistan Won | UAE Won |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | 11 | 3 |
Afghanistan hold a clear advantage in the head-to-head record, thanks to their stronger T20 experience and consistent performances over the years.
AFG vs UAE Pitch Report
The Delhi surface is known for being batting-friendly with a flat wicket, quick outfield and shorter boundaries. Batters usually enjoy playing their shots here once they settle.
Fast bowlers may get some movement early with the new ball, while spinners can find grip during the middle overs. In this tournament, the average first-innings score has been around 160–180, with totals above 190 also achievable.
Since this is a morning match, dew is unlikely to play a major role. Teams winning the toss may prefer to bat first and put scoreboard pressure on the opposition.
Probable Playing XI
Afghanistan
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (c), Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad.
UAE
Aryansh Sharma (wk), Muhammad Waseem (c), Alishan Sharafu, Mayank Kumar, Shoaib Khan, Harshit Kaushik, Muhammad Irfan, Muhammad Farooq, Haider Ali, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah.
Players to Watch
Afghanistan:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s attacking starts, Rashid Khan’s match-winning spin, Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s control and Azmatullah Omarzai’s all-round contribution.
UAE:
Muhammad Waseem’s leadership and batting, Alishan Sharafu’s form and Junaid Siddique’s pace could play important roles.
Key Match Scenario
- A total of 170+ will be competitive at this venue.
- Early wickets in the powerplay will be crucial for both teams.
- Middle-overs spin could decide the outcome of the match.
Match Prediction
Afghanistan start as strong favourites due to their experienced squad, powerful spin attack and better head-to-head record. Their ability to handle pressure situations also gives them an edge in a must-win game.
UAE, however, will look to take advantage of any early breakthroughs and build pressure through disciplined bowling.
If Afghanistan bat first and post a total above 170, they will be in a strong position. This Group D encounter promises an intense contest as both teams fight to keep their Super 8 hopes alive in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
