T20 WC 2026: Afghanistan vs UAE preview, toss time, live streaming

Afghanistan and UAE Gear Up for Crucial Group D Showdown

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 heats up as Afghanistan takes on the United Arab Emirates in a pivotal Group D encounter on February 16 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. This 28th match of the tournament, starting at 10:00 AM local time, carries massive implications for both sides in the group stage, which runs from February 7 to 20 across venues in India and Sri Lanka. Afghanistan, still winless after opening losses to New Zealand and a heart-stopping double Super Over defeat to South Africa, sits fourth in the standings and desperately needs points to stay in the Super 8 hunt. The UAE, meanwhile, seeks to build on a gritty win over Canada following a heavy loss to New Zealand, aiming to solidify their position in the group. With qualification tightening, this fixture could define their campaigns in the 20-team event featuring 55 matches in total.

Afghanistan's campaign has been marked by resilience but plagued by fine margins. In their opener against New Zealand, they showed fight but couldn't close out the game. The clash with South Africa was a thriller, going to two Super Overs after tied scores, yet they fell short, with Rashid Khan marking his 700th T20 wicket in the process—a historic milestone as the first player to reach it. Players like Ibrahim Zadran, who scored 53 in a previous outing, and bowlers such as Azmatullah Omarzai have displayed promise, but sharper decision-making in crunch moments remains key. Captained by experienced hands, the Afghans will lean on their spin attack and middle-order firepower to turn the tide against UAE.

Toss, Streaming, and Match Essentials

Cricket fans can catch the toss at 9:30 AM local time, setting the tone for this high-stakes T20 battle under Delhi's clear skies. Live streaming options will be available through official ICC broadcasters worldwide, ensuring global audiences don't miss a ball from the Arun Jaitley Stadium, known for its electric atmosphere and flat pitches favoring high-scoring games. Weather forecasts predict sunny conditions with no rain interruptions, allowing for a full 40-over contest. Viewers should check local listings for channels or apps carrying the feed, as the match promises edge-of-the-seat action with both teams boasting explosive batting lineups and crafty bowlers. This fixture is part of a packed February 16 schedule that also includes England vs Italy and Australia vs Sri Lanka, underscoring the tournament's intense group-stage format where top teams from each group advance.

UAE enters with momentum after edging Canada in a tense finish, a stark contrast to their 10-wicket drubbing by New Zealand. Sohaib Khan's 68 off 48 balls in a prior game highlights their batting depth, while Junaid Siddique's wickets show bowling intent. For Afghanistan, this is do-or-die; a win could reignite their hopes, while UAE eyes back-to-back victories to climb the table. Expect a tactical battle, with spinners likely to dominate on the Delhi surface.

Team Form, Key Battles, and Stakes

This sentiment captures the urgency as Rashid Khan leads a spin-heavy attack against UAE's aggressive top order. Key matchups include Zadran versus UAE openers, who could set a brisk pace, and Omarzai's seam movement testing UAE's middle order. UAE's recovery from their opener loss demonstrates character, with their disciplined bowling restricting opponents effectively. Both squads feature emerging talents alongside veterans, making this a clash of ambition and experience. A victory for Afghanistan revives their tournament, potentially leapfrogging UAE, while UAE could cement a strong group position.

"We've shown we can compete with the best, but now it's about executing under pressure—Afghanistan has the talent, we just need that winning momentum to push for the Super 8s," said an Afghanistan team spokesperson ahead of the match.

Beyond this game, Group D's dynamics are fluid, with results from earlier matches like South Africa's Super 8 qualification influencing the race. Afghanistan's inability to convert strong phases into wins has been their Achilles' heel, but home support in India might inspire a turnaround. UAE, as Associate nations punching above their weight, thrives on underdog spirit. Strategists predict a run chase could decide the outcome, given recent high totals in the group.

In summary, the Afghanistan vs UAE T20 World Cup 2026 match on February 16 at 10:00 AM promises drama, with toss at 9:30 AM and wide live streaming access. Afghanistan seeks their first win amid tough losses, while UAE builds confidence—key battles and form will shape Super 8 hopes in this Group D thriller.