Afghanistan posted a massive 181‑3 on the opening day of their T20I series against the West Indies at Dubai’s Khalifa International Stadium, securing a 69‑run victory. The win, powered by a 162‑run opening stand and Rashid Khan’s three‑wicket spell, gives the Afghan Tigers vital momentum heading into the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Afghanistan’s Dominant Batting Display
Record Opening Partnership
The innings began with openers Ibrahim Zadran (71) and Darwish Rasooli (71*) forging a 162‑run stand – the highest opening partnership for Afghanistan in a T20I. Their aggressive strokeplay produced 12 fours and six sixes from Zadran and 10 fours and five sixes from Rasooli, propelling the side to a formidable total.
Rashid Khan’s All‑Round Impact
Captain Rashid Khan contributed a quick 12‑run cameo before delivering a decisive bowling spell: three wickets for 22 runs in four overs. His dual role reinforces his status as a match‑winner and adds flexibility to Afghanistan’s game plan.
West Indies Struggle in the Chase
Early Wickets Set Back the Caribbean
Afghanistan’s bowler Ziaur Rahman struck early, dismissing Brandon King for a duck in the third over. A second wicket fell at 38‑2 when Zadran trapped Nicholas Lewis, leaving the West Indies on the back foot.
Bowling Excellence from Afghanistan
Beyond Rahman, the pace duo Naveed Ahmad and Qais Ahmad combined for 2‑0‑30‑1, while Rashid Khan’s spin sealed the win. The West Indies were bowled out for 112 in 18.3 overs, handing Afghanistan a comprehensive 69‑run triumph.
What This Means for the T20 World Cup
Afghanistan’s Momentum and Strategy
The 181‑3 total ranks among the highest posted on Dubai’s flat pitches, signalling that Afghanistan can post world‑class scores against quality opposition. The solid top‑order platform, highlighted by Zadran and Rasooli, offers adaptability for the sub‑continental conditions expected in the upcoming World Cup.
West Indies’ Areas to Improve
The defeat exposed a reliance on senior players and limited depth in the lower order. Coach Phil Simmons is likely to experiment with the opening pair and promote younger talent such as Roston Bennett to inject aggression and resilience.
Looking Ahead to the Series Decider
The second T20I at the same venue promises a thrilling contest. Afghanistan will aim to maintain their batting momentum while rotating bowlers to keep the West Indies guessing. The Caribbean side will seek a more aggressive start to counter early breakthroughs.
- Key takeaway: Afghanistan’s dominant performance boosts confidence ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
- Watch: Whether the West Indies can adjust their batting strategy in the next match.
- Implication: Both teams will fine‑tune tactics that could shape their World Cup campaigns.
