Dubai, January 21, 2026 — Afghanistan took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against West Indies after registering a convincing 39-run victory in the second match at the Dubai International Stadium on Tuesday.
With the series now sealed, Afghanistan will have the opportunity to test their bench strength in the third and final T20I, while West Indies will look to avoid a clean sweep when the teams meet again on January 22.
Afghanistan Post Competitive Total After Early Setback
Put in to bat first, Afghanistan recovered strongly from an early wobble to post a commanding 189/4. The innings was rebuilt after the loss of both openers inside the Powerplay, leaving the hosts at 9/1.
The turning point came through a 100-run partnership between Sediqullah Atal and Darwish Rasooli, who dominated the middle overs with controlled aggression. Rasooli, in particular, punished the West Indies spinners, targeting Gudakesh Motie to maintain momentum.
A late flourish from Azmatullah Omarzai, combined with a slow over-rate penalty against the visitors, allowed Afghanistan to collect 48 runs in the final five overs, setting West Indies a stiff chase at nearly 10 runs per over.
West Indies Falter Despite Hetmyer Resistance
In reply, West Indies endured a difficult start, managing only 29 runs in the Powerplay and losing Athanaze to a run-out for 8. The pressure intensified when Mujeeb Ur Rahman struck twice in two balls to dismiss Evin Lewis and Johnson Charles, reducing the visitors to 38/3.
A brief fightback came through Shimron Hetmyer, who launched three sixes in an over off Noor Ahmad. Alongside Brandon King, Hetmyer added 60 runs in just 25 balls, briefly swinging momentum back in West Indies’ favour.
However, Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan brought back Fazalhaq Farooqi, whose timely breakthrough removed Hetmyer and effectively ended the chase. From there, Afghanistan ran through the remaining batting order.
Mujeeb Stars With Hat-Trick Haul
Mujeeb Ur Rahman was the standout performer, finishing with a four-wicket haul, including a hat-trick, to earn the Player of the Match award. He said his focus was on keeping things simple and hitting the stumps regularly, adding that the series has been valuable preparation ahead of the World Cup.
Captains React After Series-Deciding Win
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan said playing against West Indies is always challenging and praised his team’s consistency and batting momentum. He highlighted Darwish Rasooli’s growing responsibility and emphasized the importance of effort until the final ball.
West Indies batter Brandon King admitted missed catches proved costly and felt the side could have restricted Afghanistan to a lower total. He also reflected that more responsibility was needed after the dismissal of Hetmyer.
Series Outlook
Afghanistan have now secured the series 2-0, continuing their impressive run in T20 cricket. The third and final match will be played on January 22, starting at 2:30 pm GMT, with West Indies aiming to restore some pride and Afghanistan eyeing a clean sweep.