T20 World Cup 2026 Group D Match: Predicting Afghanistan vs South Africa Playing XI  

Afghanistan will take on South Africa in a crucial Group D clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on February 11, with the match scheduled to begin at 11 AM at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With Group D regarded as the “group of death,” every fixture carries added significance, and this encounter could prove decisive for both sides.

Afghanistan enter the match under pressure after suffering a defeat against New Zealand in their opening game, making this contest vital for their hopes of reaching the Super Eight. South Africa, on the other hand, began their campaign in emphatic fashion, registering a thumping win over Canada built on dominant performances from both their batting and bowling units. Conditions in Ahmedabad are expected to offer assistance to fast bowlers with early seam movement but overall it is a batting paradise.

With little margin for error at this stage of the tournament, team combinations and role clarity will play a major role in determining the outcome.

Also check: Predicted India Playing XI, India vs Namibia – T20 World Cup 2026 Match 18

Here are the Afghanistan vs South Africa Playing XI  for the T20 World Cup 2026 Group D Match:

Predicted Afghanistan Playing XI

Top Order: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib

Afghanistan are expected to open with the aggressive Rahmanullah Gurbaz alongside Ibrahim Zadran, offering a blend of intent and stability. Gulbadin Naib slots in at No.3 after being Afghanistan’s standout batter in their previous clash against New Zealand, where he played a key role in powering the innings.

Middle Order: Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai

The middle order provides adaptability, with Rasooli and Omarzai capable of shifting gears while also absorbing pressure during difficult phases.

Lower Order: Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (c)

Nabi’s experience and Rashid Khan’s all-round impact remain central to Afghanistan’s plans, especially in high-pressure situations.

Bowlers: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Mujeeb’s control in the powerplay and Farooqi’s left-arm pace will be key against South Africa’s explosive top order.

Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2026 squad

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Ishaq, Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai.

Predicted South Africa Playing XI

Top Order: Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton

Markram will lead from the front after being the enforcer in the powerplay during South Africa’s opening match. de Kock and Rickelton provide aggression and stability at the top.

Middle Order: Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs

The middle-order trio of Dewald Brevis, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs gives South Africa explosive firepower, capable of turning games within a few overs.

All-rounders: Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch

Jansen’s left-arm pace and Bosch’s seam-bowling all-round value add depth and flexibility to the South Africa contingent.

Bowlers: Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi

Rabada and Ngidi form a potent pace combination, while Maharaj’s spin offers control in the middle overs.

South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 squad

Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Jason Smith, George Linde, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Maphaka.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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