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West Indies vs Afghanistan: T20I Series in UAE Ahead of World Cup

Cricket West Indies has confirmed a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in the UAE. All matches will be played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium from January 19-22, 2026. Both teams see this as crucial preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The West Indies currently hold a 5-3 advantage in their previous T20I encounters against Afghanistan.

Key Points: West Indies Afghanistan T20I Series UAE January 2026

  • Three-match T20I series scheduled for January 19-22, 2026
  • All matches to be held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the UAE
  • Series serves as key preparation for T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka
  • West Indies hold 5-3 head-to-head advantage in T20Is
2 min read

West Indies to face Afghanistan in T20I series in UAE ahead of T20 World Cup

West Indies and Afghanistan to play three T20Is in Sharjah in January 2026, serving as crucial preparation for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

"This series provides an ideal platform for our preparation. - Miles Bascombe, CWI Director of Cricket"

St John's, November 11

Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Tuesday confirmed a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan slated to take place in January 2026 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The series will begin on January 19 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the second and third T20I matches being scheduled for January 21 and 22 at the same venue.

CWI's Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, said, "This series provides an ideal platform for our preparation. Facing strong opposition in subcontinental conditions will help us sharpen our combinations and approach, and it also gives our players a chance to build confidence on surfaces similar to those we'll encounter in India and Sri Lanka."

Naseeb Khan, CEO of the Afghanistan Cricket Board, said, "Competing against the West Indies on the brink of a global event presents an excellent opportunity for our team to finalise their lineup and enhance their preparations for the upcoming mega event in India and Sri Lanka. We have been closely monitoring the team's preparation process, and facing a quality West Indies side offers an ideal platform for their buildup."

The West Indies, co-hosts of the last T20 World Cup, made it to the Super Eight stage but fell short of the knockouts, whereas Afghanistan created history by reaching the semi-finals for the first time. In their previous encounters, the West Indies hold a 5-3 edge over Afghanistan in their eight T20I meetings.

The West Indies team is currently touring New Zealand for a five-T20S series, followed by three Tests and 3 ODIs. The series began on November 5 and will conclude on December 22.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
UAE conditions are perfect preparation for the subcontinent World Cup. Smart scheduling by both boards. Hope our Indian team also gets good practice matches before the big tournament!
A
Arjun K
Afghanistan's rise in cricket has been phenomenal. From war-torn nation to beating top teams consistently. Their spin attack will trouble West Indies in UAE conditions. Rashid Khan vs West Indies power hitters will be 🔥
S
Sarah B
While the series is good for preparation, I wish more matches were scheduled in the Caribbean or Afghanistan. Neutral venues are fine, but home crowds add so much to the experience.
V
Vikram M
West Indies need to improve their consistency. They have the talent but often fail to deliver in crunch situations. This series against a confident Afghanistan side will test their mettle properly.
M
Michael C
Three matches in four days at the same venue? That's quite packed! Hope the players get adequate rest and the pitches don't become too worn out. Still, exciting cricket ahead! 🏏

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