Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 journey received a massive boost with a five-wicket rout of UAE in Group D at Arun Jaitley Stadium. Captain Rashid Khan, frugal at 1/24, guided his team to chase 161 in 19.2 overs after UAE managed 160/9.
With two losses behind them, this win vaults Afghanistan to third place. Canada awaits on February 19 in what could define their qualification fate.
In presentations, Rashid’s relief was palpable. ‘Ecstatic to seal the victory. World Cup matches demand wins,’ he declared. He broke down the game: superb final overs bowling offset a shaky start. ‘UAE exploited our initial inconsistencies. We need sharper powerplay execution.’
Post Gurbaz’s early blow, Zadran’s onslaught proved decisive. Rashid praised the opener’s flair: ‘Gurbaz attacks relentlessly in powerplays, overwhelming foes. Prolonged stays, however, propel the team.’
Veterans Nabi, Omarzai, and Mujeeb provide the backbone, per Rashid. ‘Super 8 dreams alive with positivity. Our cricket will always uplift the nation.’ Momentum surges as Afghanistan prepares for the decider.