Afghanistan Eyes Series Win vs. Depleted WI

Afghanistan is set to secure the T20I series against the West Indies on Wednesday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Following a commanding victory in the first match, Afghanistan, with a full-strength squad, is favored against a West Indies team missing key players. This contest serves as vital preparation for both sides leading up to their T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns.

The first T20I saw Afghanistan dominate with both bat and ball, posting a strong total and restricting West Indies during the chase. This match is particularly important as it precedes Afghanistan's tour of India and Sri Lanka next month, offering a final opportunity to test combinations before focusing on T20 World Cup 2026 preparations.

The Dubai venue is expected to offer a balanced pitch, with conditions conducive to cricket. Clear skies and moderate temperatures are forecasted for January 21, creating ideal playing conditions. Historically, scores between 155-170 are considered competitive at this stadium, suggesting a potentially close contest.

Afghanistan's recent form shows a five-match winning streak against the West Indies. Their squad boasts experienced players like Ibrahim Zadran and Rashid Khan, while the West Indies, led by Brandon King, feature power hitters like Evin Lewis but face challenges with consistency and player availability due to SA20 commitments.