Afghanistan registered a composed five-wicket win over United Arab Emirates in Match 28 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, chasing 161 with four balls to spare. In their innings, United Arab Emirates scored 160 runs for the loss of 9 wickets after choosing to bat first. They got off to a quick start in the powerplay with 55 runs, before slowly losing momentum as Afghanistan took wickets regularly. This prevented any acceleration during the death overs, and ultimately kept the total within reach. Despite a good start, the UAE couldn’t keep partnerships going, resulting in a sufficient score but eventually could not be enough.

During the innings Sohaib Khan was the anchor scoring an impressive 68 runs off of 48 balls with six fours and four sixes. Alishan Sharafu was the next highest scorer with 40 runs and Syed Haider had a contribution of 13 runs. However, UAE lost wickets in quick succession towards the end of their innings and stunted the progress that they had made in their innings with the potential for a larger score. Afghanistan’s attack was anchored by Azmatullah Omarzai who had a fantastic bowling performance with 4 wickets for 15 runs taking the game away from UAE, while also ensuring the other bowlers kept a tight grip on run scoring causing UAE to have a steady decline in run rate for the second half of their innings.

Afghanistan’s chase began shakily with an early wicket, but Ibrahim Zadran steadied proceedings with a calm 53 off 41 deliveries. Contributions from the middle order, including aggressive cameos, kept the required rate under control. Omarzai then capped a superb all-round display by smashing an unbeaten 40 to guide his side home alongside Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan finished on 162/5 in 19.2 overs, sealing a confident victory that highlighted their composure under pressure and strengthened their position in the tournament standings.

See Also: Watch: Pakistani fan sings Indian national anthem during IND vs PAK T20 WC 2026 match in Colombo

T20 World Cup 2026: Updated Points Table after AFG vs UAE Match 28

Group A

Group B

Group C

Group D

T20 World Cup 2026: Top Performances

Most Runs

Most Wickets

In Match 20 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, the United Arab Emirates registered a confident five-wicket win over Canada in Group D. Batting first, Canada managed 150/7 in their allotted 20 overs, but UAE completed the chase with two balls remaining, reaching 151/5 in 19.4 overs. The contest remained evenly poised for long phases, yet UAE’s composed batting effort, especially during the latter half of the innings, ensured they secured crucial points and improved their position in the standings.

Canada’s total was built around Harsh Thaker’s steady 50 off 41 deliveries, supported by Navneet Dhaliwal’s 34 and Shreyas Movva’s 21. However, frequent wickets halted their momentum just as partnerships began to take shape. The standout performer with the ball was Junaid Siddique, who produced a superb five-wicket haul, striking at vital moments to restrict Canada from accelerating late. His disciplined spell proved decisive in keeping the target within reach on a surface that offered balanced conditions.

Chasing 151, UAE faced early setbacks but regained control through a crucial 84-run partnership between Aryansh Sharma and Sohaib Khan. Aryansh anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 74 off 53 balls, while Sohaib counterattacked brilliantly with 51 from 29 deliveries to swing the momentum. Although Canada picked up a few late wickets, the asking rate never escalated dramatically. UAE maintained their composure, and Aryansh calmly guided the side home to complete a well-measured and significant victory.

See Also: List of injured players and their replacements in T20 World Cup 2026

T20 World Cup 2026: Updated Points Table After UAE vs CAN Match 20

Group A

Group B

Group C

Group D

T20 World Cup 2026: Top Performances

Most Runs

Most Wickets

In Match 20 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, the United Arab Emirates secured a composed five-wicket victory over Canada in Group D. Canada posted 150/7 in their 20 overs after opting to bat first, but UAE chased down the target with two balls to spare, finishing on 151/5 in 19.4 overs. A steady batting display, highlighted by a crucial partnership in the latter half of the innings, ensured UAE collected valuable points and strengthened their standing in the group table.

Canada’s innings saw contributions from several batters, with Harsh Thaker leading the charge with a well-compiled 50 off 41 deliveries. Navneet Dhaliwal added a steady 34, while Shreyas Movva chipped in with 21 to keep the scoreboard ticking. However, regular wickets prevented Canada from building sustained momentum. Junaid Siddique was the standout performer with the ball for UAE, claiming an impressive five-wicket haul and consistently breaking partnerships at key intervals to restrict the total.

Despite a promising middle phase, Canada’s innings lacked the final flourish required to push beyond the 160-mark. UAE’s bowlers maintained disciplined lines, with Muhammad Jawadullah also contributing economically. In reply, UAE endured a cautious start, losing early wickets in the powerplay. Canada’s bowlers, particularly Saad Bin Zafar, applied pressure through tight spells, briefly putting the chasing side on the back foot and raising hopes of a competitive defense.

See Also: List of injured players and their replacements in T20 World Cup 2026

Aryansh and Sohaib Anchor the Chase

The turning point came through a decisive partnership between Aryansh Sharma and Sohaib Khan. Aryansh anchored the chase with a composed unbeaten 74 off 53 balls, blending patience with timely boundaries. Sohaib provided the necessary acceleration, smashing 51 off 29 deliveries and shifting the momentum firmly in UAE’s favor. Their 84-run stand effectively neutralized Canada’s bowling attack and brought the target within comfortable reach in the closing overs.

Although Canada managed a few late breakthroughs, the required rate never spiraled out of control. UAE’s calm approach under pressure ensured they remained ahead of the equation. Aryansh’s unbeaten knock guided the team home, with Muhammad Arfan finishing the chase alongside him. The victory not only highlighted UAE’s batting depth but also underscored their growing confidence as they continued their campaign in the tournament.

Top Performers

Aryansh Sharma starred for the United Arab Emirates with a match-winning unbeaten 74 off 53 balls, anchoring the chase with composure and control. Sohaib Khan provided the decisive momentum shift, hammering 51 off 29 deliveries in a game-changing partnership. Earlier, Junaid Siddique’s brilliant five-wicket haul restricted Canada to 150/7. For Canada, Harsh Thaker’s steady 50 was the standout contribution with the bat, while Saad Bin Zafar impressed with three economical wickets.

Key Moments

Junaid Siddique’s early breakthroughs and consistent strikes through the middle overs prevented Canada from building a bigger total. During the chase, UAE slipped to 66/4, giving Canada hope. However, the crucial 84-run stand between Aryansh Sharma and Sohaib Khan swung the momentum decisively. Sohaib’s late assault brought the equation under control, and despite his dismissal near the end, Aryansh calmly guided UAE home with two balls to spare.

Brief Score – ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026

Canada: 150/7 (20 overs)
Harsh Thaker 50 (41); Junaid Siddique 5/35

United Arab Emirates: 151/5 (19.4 overs)
Aryansh Sharma 74* (53), Sohaib Khan 51 (29); Saad Bin Zafar 3/14

Result: United Arab Emirates won by 5 wickets.

New Zealand are set to take on the United Arab Emirates in Match No. 11 of Group D at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on February 10 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Black Caps made a confident start to their campaign with a five-wicket win over Afghanistan, showcasing calm batting and smart game awareness. On a surface that aided spin, New Zealand’s batters applied discipline to control the chase and secure a comfortable victory. Carrying that momentum, they will look to register back-to-back wins and consolidate their position at the top of the group.

The United Arab Emirates, meanwhile, will begin their World Cup journey with this encounter. This is UAE’s third appearance in T20 World Cup history, having failed to qualify for the 2024 edition. Returning as the final team to seal qualification for the 2026 tournament, they will be eager to make a strong impression. Led by Muhammad Waseem, the squad includes Dhruv Parashar, Aryansh Sharma, Alishan Sharafu, and Simranjeet Singh, all aiming to rise to the challenge against a strong New Zealand side.

See Also: Watch: Shadley van Schalkwyk picks two wickets in one over during PAK vs USA T20 WC 2026

T20 World Cup 2026: Match 11, NZ vs UAE: Live Streaming Details and Match Details

T20 World Cup 2026: Match 11, NZ vs UAE: Probable Playing XI

New Zealand (NZ):

Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (WK), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (C), James Neesham, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy

United Arab Emirates (UAE):

Aryansh Sharman (WK), Muhammad Waseem (C), Muhammad Zohaib, Alishan Sharafu, Harshit Kaushik, Sohaib Khan, Dhruv Parashar, Haider Ali, Muhammad Arfan, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah.

United Arab Emirates and Ireland will go head to head in the second and final T20I of the series at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, 31 January UAE will be looking to level the series after losing the first match, while Ireland will be aiming to win the series with another good show.

Ireland won the first T20I comprehensively by 57 runs. Batting first, Ireland scored a competitive total of 178 for 6, with many players contributing important runs to the total. Ross Adair, Lorcan Tucker, Curtis Campher, Benjamin Calitz, and George Dockrell all contributed well and post a good total. UAE, on the other hand, struggled in the chase and were bowled out for 121. The batting lineup let the team down despite the good show by captain Muhammad Waseem, who scored 40. Matthew Humphreys and Gareth Delany starred with the ball for Ireland, picking up three wickets each.

UAE will be hoping to improve their batting and not have a collapse like the previous match. Ireland, on the other hand, will be taking confidence from their all-round performance and hoping to end the series on a positive note.

UAE vs IRE: Pitch Report 

The pitch in Dubai is expected to be similar to the one used in the first match. It offers a fair contest between bat and ball. Batters who spend some time at the crease can score freely, while spinners are likely to be effective during the middle overs as the pitch slows down.

UAE vs IRE: Head-to-Head (T20Is)

• Matches Played: 12
• UAE Won: 7
• Ireland Won: 5
• No Result: 0

See Also: IND vs NZ, 5th T20I: Head-to-head, pitch report & predicted playing XIs

UAE vs IRE: Predicted Playing XIs

United Arab Emirates (UAE):

Muhammad Waseem (C), Sohaib Khan, Rahul Chopra, Aryansh Sharma (WK), Alishan Sharafu, Harshit Kaushik, Basil Hameed, Haider Ali, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Arfan, Muhammad Jawadullah

Ireland (IRE):

Paul Stirling (C), Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (WK), Ross Adair, George Dockrell, Barry McCarthy, Mark Adair, Benjamin Calitz, Matthew Humphreys, Gareth Delany

The United Arab Emirates will face Ireland in the first T20I of the Ireland tour of the United Arab Emirates 2026, which will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Ground, Dubai. The United Arab Emirates is going to return to the T20 format after almost four months. The captain, Muhammad Waseem, is confident that the team can start their season well. Nonetheless, Ireland is coming into the series with a lot of confidence having defeated Italy in a three-match T20I series played in the UAE. 

Captain Muhammad Waseem, Alishan Sharafu, Rohan Chopra, Mayank Kumar, and Asif Khan are the key players for the Irish side to perform well in this match, while the home side will be relying on the likes of Paul Stirling, Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, and Benjamin Calitz to score the runs. 

Also Read: Ireland tour of United Arab Emirates, 1st T20I: UAE vs IRE, Probable Playing 11, Where To Watch, Live Streaming Details

UAE vs IRE Match Details

• Match: United Arab Emirates vs Ireland, 1st T20I

• Date: 29th January 2026

• Time: 8.00 PM IST

• Venue: Dubai International Cricket Ground, Dubai

• Live Streaming: FanCode

UAE vs IRE Weather Report

Pitch Report - Dubai International Cricket Ground

• Balanced wicket

• Large boundaries 

• Chasing team advantage due to the dew

Top Batters to Watch – UAE vs IRE

• Paul Stirling (IRE): 3866 runs in T20I 

• Lorcan Tucker (IRE): 1541 runs in T20I 

• Muhammad Waseem (UAE): 3184 runs in T20I 

Top Bowlers to Watch – UAE vs IRE

• Joshua Little (IRE): 82 wickets in T20I 

• Junaid Siddique (UAE): 113 wickets in T20I 

• Craig Young (IRE): 87 wickets in T20I

UAE vs IRE Recent Form

UAE vs IRE Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If UAE Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 40–45

• Predicted Total: 140-145

• Match Result: IRE to win

Scenario 2: If IRE Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 45–50

• Predicted Total: 155–165

• Match Result: IRE to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

UAE vs IRE Predicted Playing XIs

United Arab Emirates 

Muhammad Waseem (captain), Alishan Sharafu, Harshit Kaushik, Rohan Chopra, Mayank Kumar, Asif Khan, Dhruv Parashar, Muhammad Rohid, Junaid Siddique, Haider Ali and Saghir Khan.

Ireland 

Paul Stirling (c), Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker(wk), Benjamin Calitz, Matthew Humphreys, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young, Gareth Delaney and George Dockrell.

UAE vs IRE Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

According to our UAE vs IRE today match prediction, Ireland are the favourites to win the 1st T20I. The likes of Paul Stirling, Lorcan Tucker and Harry Tector will be key players to watch out for.

UAE vs IRE Match FAQs

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ireland (IRE) are all set to kick off their two-match T20I series, with the first game scheduled at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, January 29. The two teams last faced each other in a T20I back in February 2022. The UAE will aim to make the most of their time in the middle ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. Captain Muhammad Waseem is expected to play a crucial role with the bat while leading the team tactically.

Ireland comes into the series with confidence after winning a three-match T20I series against Italy in Dubai, taking the contest 2-1. The side has used the preparation period effectively, giving players valuable match practice ahead of the World Cup. Ireland will aim to build on that momentum, experimenting with strategies and combinations to fine-tune their team. Both encounters will serve as a key opportunity for the Irish squad to assess conditions and sharpen skills ahead of the mega tournament starting February 7.

See Also: 'Batting first to challenge...' - Former India player criticizes team selection after India's defeat in IND vs NZ 4th T20I

Ireland tour of United Arab Emirates, 1st T20I, UAE vs IRE: Live Streaming Details

Ireland tour of United Arab Emirates, 1st T20I, UAE vs IRE: Probable Playing XI

United Arab Emirates (UAE):

Alishan Sharafu, Muhammad Waseem (C), Rahul Chopra (WK), Aryansh Sharma, Sohaib Khan, Muhammad Farooq, Harshit Kaushik, Haider Ali, Junaid Siddique, Simranjeet Singh, Muhammad Rohid

Ireland (IRE):

Paul Stirling (C), Ross Adair, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (WK), George Dockrell, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Gareth Delany, Craig Young, Mark Adair

The UAE will use a two-match T20I series against Ireland as their final piece of preparation before the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with the tournament now less than two weeks away. While several teams have already locked in their World Cup squads, UAE are still weighing their options and have until midnight on January 30 to submit their final list.

Led by Muhammad Waseem, UAE face Ireland in Dubai on January 29 and January 31, with both matches offering valuable game time ahead of the long trip to the subcontinent. The first T20I will be played under lights on Thursday evening, while the second gets underway on Saturday morning. Conditions in Dubai are expected to be closer to what the side will face later in the tournament, making the series particularly important for fine-tuning combinations.

UAE set for tough Group D test at T20 World Cup

UAE booked their World Cup spot in dramatic fashion, becoming the final team to qualify after a strong showing at the Asia & East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in October 2025. That campaign showcased the depth in their batting and the growing reliability of their bowling attack, both of which will be tested heavily in Group D.

ALSO SEE: Watch: How Netherlands Women celebrated their maiden Women's T20 World Cup 2026 qualification

At the World Cup, UAE begin their campaign against New Zealand in Chennai on February 10 before travelling to Delhi to face Canada on February 13 and Afghanistan on February 16. They wrap up the group stage with a clash against South Africa on February 18. Prior to that, official warm-up matches against Nepal on February 3 and Italy on February 6 will provide another chance to assess form and fitness.

While the World Cup squad is still under wraps, the Ireland series selection offers a strong hint at the core group UAE are backing heading into the global event.

UAE squad for T20I series vs Ireland:

Muhammad Waseem (capt), Alishan Sharafu, Aryansh Sharma (wk), Basil Hameed, Haider Ali, Harshit Kaushik, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Arfan, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Jawadullah, Muhammad Zohaib, Rahul Chopra (wk), Rohid Khan, Sohaib Khan and Simranjeet Singh.

The 20 teams for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 were confirmed on Thursday (October 16), following the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) booking of the last remaining spot for the tournament. 

UAE became last team to qualify for ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026

The top three teams in the Asia–EAP Regional Final could earn the last three tickets for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, while Nepal and Oman recently confirmed their respective tickets for the upcoming T20 World Cup from the Asia–EAP Regional Final. Now, UAE have confirmed their place for the next T20 World Cup after securing their spot in the top three positions in the Super 6 of the ongoing Asia–EAP Regional Final. They needed a win on Thursday, when they faced Japan, and UAE thrashed Japan by eight wickets with 47 balls remaining. 

UAE previously featured in two Men's T20 World Cups, which were in 2014 and 2022, now, they will start the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 along with the big teams, which will be their first such experience, as they were previously eliminated from the first rounds of both tournaments. 

India, the defending champions, and Sri Lanka will jointly host the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to take place between February and March 2026, with 20 teams participating in the tournament. While the hosts directly qualified for the next T20 World Cup, all the remaining Super 8 teams from the previous T20 World Cup (2024) also earned direct qualification for the upcoming edition. These seven teams are South Africa, Afghanistan, England, Australia, Bangladesh, the West Indies, and the USA.   

The next three places are for the next three top ICC T20I-ranked teams, while the date of qualification was set for June 30, 2024, the next day after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024.

So, from the global regional qualifiers, eight more teams have earned qualifications for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. After Canada earned the only qualification ticket from the Americas Qualifier, the Netherlands and Italy have booked their places from the Europe Qualifier. Zimbabwe and Namibia confirmed their places from the Africa Qualifier early this month before Nepal, Oman, and UAE achieved it from the Asia–EAP Regional Final.

ENG vs NZ 2025: England Announce Playing XI for First T20I Against New Zealand

ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026: 20 Qualified Teams

Hosts: India (also defending champions), Sri Lanka

Super 8 teams of ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024: South Africa, England, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, West Indies, USA

Next Top 3 ICC T20I-ranked teams (as of June 30, 2024): New Zealand, Pakistan, Ireland

Americas Qualifier (1 team): Canada

Europe Qualifier (2 teams): Netherlands, Italy

Africa Qualifier (2 teams): Zimbabwe, Namibia

Asia–EAP Qualifier (3 teams): Nepal, Oman, UAE

The Super Six, 18th of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier 2025, will see the United Arab Emirates (UAE) facing Japan (JPN) at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground. With a comprehensive 77-run win over Samoa, the UAE was able to break its two-match losing streak. Captain Muhammad Waseem is counting on his team to exhibit discipline in all three departments against Japan.

On the other hand,  Japan suffered defeat against Qatar. Captain Kendel Fleming hopes that the team can adjust to the conditions and put in an improved performance against the UAE.

Also Read: ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025: AUS-W vs BAN-W Today Match Prediction – 17th Match, Who Will Win Today?

UAE vs JPN Match Details

• Match: United Arab Emirates vs Japan, Super Six, 18th Match 

• Date: 16th October 2025

• Time: 4:00 PM IST

• Venue: Al Amerat Cricket Ground, Al Amerat

• Live Streaming: FanCode

UAE vs JPN Weather Report

The weather in Al Amerat is expected to be pleasant and ideal for playing cricket. A full 20-over contest is guaranteed due to the absence of rain interruptions during the game. 

UAE vs JPN Pitch Report

The Al Amerat pitch is known for being balanced. Batters enjoy early overs with good bounce, while spinners gain grip as the match progresses. On this surface, a total of more than 135 runs will be a competitive total.

Top Batters to Watch – UAE vs JPN

• Alishan Sharafu (UAE): 231 runs in this tournament

• Esam Rahman (JPN): 165 runs in this tournament

• Harshit Kaushik (UAE): 120 runs in this tournament

Top Bowlers to Watch – UAE vs JPN

• Declan Mccomb (JPN): 8 wickets in this tournament

• Dhruv Parashar (UAE): 5 wickets in this tournament

• Muhammad Farooq (UAE): 4 wickets in this tournament

UAE vs JPN Recent Form

UAE vs JPN Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If UAE Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 45–55

• Predicted Total: 165–180

• Match Result: UAE to win

Scenario 2: If JPN Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 35–45

• Predicted Total: 125–145

• Match Result: UAE to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

UAE vs JPN Predicted Playing XIs

United Arab Emirates 

Muhammad Waseem (c), Mayank Rajesh Kumar, Alishan Sharafu, Rahul Chopra (wk), Harshit Kaushik, Dhruv Parashar, Muhammad Irfan, Zahid Ali, Muhammad Farooq, Haider Ali, Junaid Siddique.

Japan 

Kendel Fleming (c), Abhishek Anand, Eesam Rahman, Sabaorish Ravichandran, Benjamin Ito Davis, Charles Hinze, Ibrahim Takahashi, Reo Sakurano Thomas, Declan Suzuki, Alexander Patmore (wk), Shoma Slater.

UAE vs JPN Complete Squads

United Arab Emirates Squad

Muhammad Waseem (c), Haider Ali, Zahid Ali, Basil Hameed, Rahul Chopra (wk), Muhammad Farooq, Jonathan Figy, Muhammad Irfan, Harshit Kaushik, Dhruv Parashar, Muhammad Rohid, Alishan Sharafu, Aryansh Sharma (wk), Junaid Siddique, Simranjeet Singh.

Japan Squad

Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (c), Abdul Samad, Abhishek Anand, Charles Hinze, Benjamin Ito-Davis, Wataru Miyauchi (wk), Esam Rahman, Sabaorish Ravichandran, Reo Sakurano-Thomas, Alexander Shirai-Patmore (wk), Shoma Sugaya-Slater, Declan Suzuki-McComb, Ibrahim Takahashi, Makoto Taniyama, Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake.

UAE vs JPN Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Our prediction is that Japan will triumph in this T20 World Cup Asia and EAP Qualifiers 2025 match. They have a strong head-to-head record against Japan and are currently performing well.

Prediction: United Arab Emirates (UAE) to win

Key players to watch: Muhammad Waseem, Alishan Sharafu and Rahul Chopra.

UAE vs JPN Match FAQs

Q1. Where can I watch the UAE vs JPN live match?

You can watch the live streaming on the FanCode app and website.

Q2. Who will win today’s UAE vs JPN T20I match?

According to our today match prediction, the United Arab Emirates are favourites to win this encounter.

Q3. What is the head-to-head record between the UAE vs JPN in T20Is?

The United Arab Emirates holds the upper hand in T20I head-to-head meetings against Oman