Who Will Win Afghanistan vs West Indies 1st T20 2026 Match Prediction – 19th January
The Afghanistan vs West Indies prediction for the 1st T20I of the three-match series clearly tilts in favour of the Asian side, considering recent form, squad balance, and conditions. The Afghanistan vs West Indies prediction becomes even more relevant as both teams treat this series as vital preparation ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The opening clash will be played on Monday, 19 January 2026, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Afghanistan enter this contest with strong momentum and a settled core. They recently dominated Zimbabwe, with Ibrahim Zadran emerging as the standout performer after scoring 169 runs in the series. The batting lineup looks stable and adaptable to slow Middle Eastern conditions, while the spin-heavy bowling attack remains Afghanistan’s biggest strength. The absence of Naveen-ul-Haq is a concern, but the depth provided by Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rashid Khan, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman still makes them a formidable unit.
On the other hand, West Indies arrive with an experimental squad and several key players unavailable due to league commitments. Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, and Sherfane Rutherford missing this series significantly weakens their balance, especially in spin-friendly conditions. Although the Windies boast explosive names like Evin Lewis and Shimron Hetmyer, their inconsistency in recent T20Is raises questions.
The Afghanistan vs West Indies prediction also leans towards the Afghans due to their superior head-to-head record, having won three of the last five encounters. Afghanistan’s familiarity with UAE conditions, combined with disciplined bowling and improving batting depth, gives them a clear edge. If they execute their plans well, Afghanistan are expected to outclass West Indies in the first T20I and start the series on a winning note.
- Afghanistan have better recent form and squad stability
- West Indies miss key senior players
- Spin-friendly conditions suit Afghanistan
- Afghanistan are favourites to win the 1st T20I
Match Details
| Match | AFG vs WI, 1st T20I |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, 19 January 2026 |
| Time | 8:00 PM (IST) |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Format | T20 International |
Team Preview
Afghanistan Preview
Afghanistan cricket team have transformed themselves into one of the most competitive sides in T20 cricket over the last decade. Their rise from associate status to global contenders has been remarkable, driven by skillful spinners, fearless batters, and strong leadership. After reaching the semi-finals of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, expectations remain high as they head towards the 2026 edition.
Batting remains Afghanistan’s most improved department. Rahmanullah Gurbaz provides explosive starts at the top, while Ibrahim Zadran has matured into a dependable anchor. Zadran’s recent form against Zimbabwe, where he scored 169 runs, underlines his importance. Middle-order experience comes from Mohammad Nabi and Gulbadin Naib, both of whom add valuable all-round options. Youngsters like Sediqullah Atal and Darwish Rasooli bring freshness and adaptability to the lineup.
Bowling is Afghanistan’s biggest strength, especially in UAE conditions. Rashid Khan continues to be their trump card, capable of controlling the middle overs and picking wickets consistently. With over 180 T20I wickets, his experience is invaluable. Mujeeb Ur Rahman complements Rashid with his variations, while Noor Ahmad adds left-arm spin variety.
The pace department has taken a hit due to Naveen-ul-Haq’s injury, but Fazalhaq Farooqi will lead the attack with the new ball. Support from Azmatullah Omarzai and Abdullah Ahmadzai ensures balance. Overall, Afghanistan look well-prepared, disciplined, and tactically superior for this series opener.
West Indies Preview
West Indies cricket team are in a rebuilding phase in T20 cricket. Once considered powerhouses of the format, their decline after the retirement of legendary players has been evident. This series against Afghanistan is part of their preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, but the absence of key players weakens their prospects.
Brandon King leads an experimental 16-member squad. As captain, King carries the dual responsibility of anchoring the innings and guiding younger players. Evin Lewis and Shimron Hetmyer remain the most dangerous batters, capable of changing games within a few overs. Johnson Charles brings experience, while youngsters like Alick Athanaze and Amir Jangoo will look to make an impression.
However, inconsistency has plagued the West Indies batting unit. Their aggressive approach often leads to collapses, especially against quality spin. The lack of experienced spin-bashers could hurt them against Afghanistan’s bowling attack.
In bowling, the Windies rely heavily on pace. Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales are talented fast bowlers, but their T20 records are still developing. Gudakesh Motie and Khary Pierre provide spin options, though they may struggle against Afghanistan’s disciplined batting. Overall, West Indies appear undercooked for UAE conditions and will need exceptional performances to challenge the hosts.
Team Squads
Afghanistan Squad:
Sediqullah Atal, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Gulbadin Naib, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Ishaq, Rashid Khan (c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai
West Indies Squad:
Evin Lewis, Alick Athanaze, Brandon King (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles (wk), Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Quentin Sampson, Gudakesh Motie, Amir Jangoo, Matthew Forde, Jayden Seales, Shamar Springer, Khary Pierre, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Joseph
Probable Playing XI
| Afghanistan | West Indies |
|---|---|
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) | Brandon King (c) |
| Ibrahim Zadran | Evin Lewis |
| Sediqullah Atal | Shimron Hetmyer |
| Mohammad Nabi | Johnson Charles (wk) |
| Gulbadin Naib | Alick Athanaze |
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Justin Greaves |
| Rashid Khan (c) | Gudakesh Motie |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | Jayden Seales |
| Noor Ahmad | Shamar Joseph |
| Fazalhaq Farooqi | Khary Pierre |
| Abdullah Ahmadzai | Ramon Simmonds |
Afghanistan vs West Indies Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Rahmanullah Gurbaz |
| BAT | Ibrahim Zadran, Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer |
| AR | Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib |
| BOWL | Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie |
This fantasy XI focuses on consistency and suitability to conditions. Rahmanullah Gurbaz is an ideal wicketkeeper choice due to his aggressive batting at the top. Ibrahim Zadran’s recent form makes him a must-pick. Brandon King and Shimron Hetmyer offer attacking potential for West Indies.
All-rounders Mohammad Nabi and Gulbadin Naib provide balance, contributing with both bat and ball. Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman are automatic selections on slow pitches, while Fazalhaq Farooqi adds wicket-taking ability with the new ball. Shamar Joseph is included for his pace threat, and Gudakesh Motie offers economical spin.
Captain Choices: Rashid Khan, Ibrahim Zadran
Vice-Captain Choices: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Mohammad Nabi
Players to Avoid: Keacy Carty, Matthew Forde
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Afghanistan (Why?)
Afghanistan are clear favourites due to better adaptation to UAE conditions, stronger spin attack, and recent form. Their batting lineup is more stable, with players capable of building innings rather than relying solely on power-hitting. Rashid Khan’s leadership and experience add tactical depth, while West Indies struggle with squad instability and missing key players. Afghanistan’s recent head-to-head dominance further strengthens their case.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | AFG Won | WI Won |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 3 | 2 |
Afghanistan have won three of the last five T20Is against West Indies, showing clear improvement and dominance.
Pitch Report
The Dubai pitch is generally slow with low bounce, assisting spinners as the game progresses. Batters who play patiently tend to succeed. A first-innings score of around 155–165 is competitive.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Dubai with temperatures around 22–24°C. No rain interruptions are forecast, ensuring a full 40-over contest.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on FanCode. Live streaming will be available on the FanCode app and website for Indian and international viewers.
Toss Prediction
Teams winning the toss may prefer to bat first, as chasing becomes tricky under lights. Afghanistan are predicted to win the toss.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Ibrahim Zadran is the most probable top scorer for Afghanistan, given his recent form. For West Indies, Brandon King remains the key batter. Rashid Khan is expected to be the leading wicket-taker, while Fazalhaq Farooqi could strike early with the new ball.
Match Prediction
Afghanistan have the upper hand in all departments. Their spin attack, batting depth, and familiarity with conditions make them favourites. West Indies will need extraordinary performances to challenge them. Prediction: Afghanistan will win the 1st T20I.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
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