AFG vs UAE Live – Today Match Live Score | T20 World Cup Live Update
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 continues with a crucial Group D encounter between Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision influenced by the pitch conditions and the possibility of evening dew later in the match. As of approximately 12:15 PM PKT, the UAE is at the crease aiming to post a competitive total under scoreboard pressure.
Match Situation – First Innings Update
The UAE began cautiously but showed resilience after early setbacks.
Top Performers – UAE Batting
- Alishan Sharafu played an aggressive yet controlled knock, scoring 40 off 31 balls before being dismissed.
- Sohaib Khan has anchored the innings effectively, currently unbeaten on 46 off 36 balls, rotating strike smartly while targeting loose deliveries.
Despite losing early wickets, UAE has managed to rebuild through measured partnerships in the middle overs.
Afghanistan Bowling Performance
Afghanistan’s bowling attack has been sharp and disciplined.
Standout Performers
- Azmatullah Omarzai delivered an exceptional spell, picking up 3 wickets for just 10 runs in 3 overs, dismantling the UAE middle order.
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman contributed with 2 crucial wickets, using his variations effectively in the powerplay and middle overs.
Early Breakthrough
Afghanistan struck immediately, dismissing UAE opener Aryansh Sharma for a duck in the first over. That early breakthrough set the tone for a high-pressure contest.
Tournament Context – Why This Match Is Crucial
This is a high-stakes Group D fixture in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Afghanistan’s Position
- Lost to New Zealand.
- Suffered a dramatic double Super Over defeat to South Africa.
- Must win today to remain in contention for the Super 8 stage.
A third loss would virtually eliminate them from the qualification race.
UAE’s Momentum
The UAE enters this contest with renewed confidence after defeating Canada in their previous outing. A win here would significantly strengthen their chances of advancing.
Pitch & Conditions – Delhi Factor
The surface at Arun Jaitley Stadium traditionally favors:
- Batters in the first innings.
- Spinners during middle overs.
- Chasing teams if dew becomes a factor later in the evening.
Afghanistan’s decision to bowl first suggests confidence in chasing under lights.
Projected First-Innings Total
Given the current run rate and wickets in hand:
- UAE may target a total between 150–165 runs if Sohaib Khan continues anchoring and lower-order hitters accelerate in the death overs.
However, Afghanistan’s bowling depth could restrict them below par if wickets fall quickly in the final overs.
How to Watch Live
Live Streaming
Available in Pakistan and India via the JioHotstar platform.
Television Broadcast
Star Sports Network is the official broadcaster for the tournament.
What to Expect in the Second Innings
If UAE posts 150+:
- Afghanistan’s top order must deliver.
- Powerplay performance will be decisive.
- UAE spinners may play a critical role defending under lights.
If the total remains under 145:
- Afghanistan would enter the chase as clear favorites.
Match Outlook
This contest carries major implications for Group D standings. Afghanistan’s campaign hangs in the balance, while UAE sees an opportunity to create a major upset.
With the death overs approaching in the first innings, momentum could shift rapidly. A late surge from UAE could redefine the target and alter Afghanistan’s chase strategy.
