Afghanistan vs West Indies in UAE 2026

A three-match T20 International series between Afghanistan and West Indies will be played in the United Arab Emirates in January 2026. The short series is scheduled as part of both teams’ preparations ahead of the global T20 tournament later that season, offering competitive match practice in conditions similar to several upcoming international venues.

All three fixtures are set to be staged at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the matches scheduled for 19, 21 and 22 January 2026. The compact window and single-venue setup make the series ideal for quick tactical work and giving squad players a chance to stake claims before the big tournament. Match start times have been listed in regional schedules and match centres for the series.

Series Overview

This three-match T20I contest brings together Afghanistan’s spin-rich attack and West Indies’ powerful batting and pace options, creating an intriguing tactical clash in UAE conditions. Beyond match results, the series will be an opportunity for both sides to finalise combinations, test bench strength and adapt to pitches that often assist spinners and reward disciplined seam planning.

What to Watch

The series offers several storylines: Afghanistan’s use of spin variations in dry, slow surfaces; West Indies’ attempts to build a potent short-form XI with impact hitters and death-over specialists; and how both teams manage workload and squad rotation ahead of the larger tournament. Young players from both sides are likely to get chances to impress selectors in high-pressure T20 conditions.

Broadcast and Match Coverage

Broadcast and live-score coverage will be available through official match centres and leading cricket platforms, with ball-by-ball updates, pre- and post-match analysis, and squad news published through team channels and sports media. Fans should check regional broadcasters and official team feeds for broadcasting details and live streaming options during the series window