Afghanistan registered an exciting 5-wicket win against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the 28th Match of Group D at Delhi during the T20 World Cup 2026, played on February 16, 2026. While chasing 161, Afghanistan managed to reach 162/5 with four overs remaining.
UAE Innings: Sohaib Khan’s Fifty Helps UAE Reach 160/9
The UAE’s innings saw some interesting moments, with several reviews taken in the initial overs of the game. Afghanistan started off strongly with a successful review in the first over, keeping the pressure on the UAE.
Despite losing two wickets in the powerplay, with 55/2, A Sharafu and Sohaib Khan added 50 runs, keeping the game alive for the UAE. The United Arab Emirates reached 100 runs in 12.3 overs, with Sohaib Khan being the anchor of the team.
Sohaib Khan’s 50 off 37 runs, with 5 fours and 3 sixes, helped the United Arab Emirates reach 160/9 in 20 overs, setting Afghanistan a target of 161 runs to chase.
Afghanistan Innings: Ibrahim Zadran Anchors the Chase
Afghanistan had a slow start to their innings, with only 41/2 in the powerplay. However, Ibrahim Zadran played a good inning. He scored his half-century in just 37 balls with 6 fours and a six.
Afghanistan reached 97/4 in 13.1 overs. The team maintained a good balance in the chase. The middle order played well under pressure with an increasing required run rate.
Afghanistan surpassed 150 in 18.5 overs. The team finally won the match at 162/5 in 19.2 overs. Afghanistan won by 5 wickets with 4 balls to spare.
Match Summary
United Arab Emirates:** 160/9 (20 overs)
Afghanistan: 162/5 (19.2 overs)
Result: Afghanistan won by 5 wickets
Key Performer: Ibrahim Zadran (50 off 37 balls)
Afghanistan’s winning match has boosted their chances in Group D of the T20 World Cup 2026. The United Arab Emirates team will try to perform better in the coming matches.