NEW DELHI – Afghanistan defeated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by three wickets in a thrilling Group D match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The win keeps Afghanistan in contention for the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026.
UAE batted first and set a target of 161 runs. Afghanistan, after winning the toss and opting to field, made an excellent start, taking two early wickets to reduce UAE to 13 for 2.
A third-wicket partnership of 84 runs steadied the UAE innings. Alishan Sharafu scored 40 runs, while Sohaib Khan hit 68 off 48 balls, including six fours and four sixes. However, once the partnership ended, UAE struggled to accelerate, finishing at 160 for 9 in 20 overs. Timely wickets from Afghanistan’s bowlers during the middle and death overs turned the game in their favor.
The two teams came into the match on different forms. UAE had beaten Canada in their first game, while Afghanistan suffered a heartbreaking loss to South Africa in a match decided by two Super Overs.
With South Africa and New Zealand leading the group with six and four points respectively, UAE’s chances of progressing depend on other results. Afghanistan, on the other hand, must win their remaining matches convincingly and hope for favorable outcomes elsewhere to stay in the T20 World Cup race.
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan led his team from the front, supported by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, and Mohammad Nabi. UAE relied on Alishan Sharafu and Sohaib Khan, but their efforts were not enough to secure the win.
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The victory boosts Afghanistan’s morale as they aim to qualify for the Super 8 stage. Fans will closely watch the upcoming matches, as the T20 World Cup promises more excitement and high-stakes cricket in the days ahead.
