What AFG’s Playing XI Could Look Like vs UAE in the 28th Match, T20WC 2026

Afghanistan’s probable lineup for the 28th Match against UAE is shaping up as a well-balanced unit tailored to the flat, high-scoring deck at Arun Jaitley Stadium. The AFG Playing XI is expected to feature openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) and Ibrahim Zadran, who can exploit the short boundaries early. The middle order, including Sediqullah Atal and Darwish Rasooli, provides stability, while all-rounders Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, and Azmatullah Omarzai add depth with bat and ball. Rashid Khan, leading from the front, anchors the bowling attack alongside Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Fazalhaq Farooqi. Selection here is crucial, as chasing is favored under evening dew conditions.

Aggressive Top Order to Exploit Short Boundaries

The openers Gurbaz and Zadran bring complementary styles: Gurbaz’s explosive strokeplay can dominate powerplay overs, while Zadran’s consistency keeps the scoreboard ticking. In a predicted playing XI, Afghanistan’s strategy will hinge on maximizing runs in the first six overs. The fast outfield at Arun Jaitley means even well-timed drives clear the inner circle, making early aggression a tactical necessity. Picking a cautious opener over an aggressive one could leave the team vulnerable to the UAE’s pace attack, so this combination balances risk and reward.

Middle Order Stability and Flexibility

Sediqullah Atal and Darwish Rasooli anchor the middle overs, bridging the aggressive start with the finishing punch. This probable XI ensures Afghanistan can accelerate after the powerplay while minimizing collapses. Rasooli’s ability to rotate strike and Atal’s hand in stabilizing innings provide tactical flexibility: they can adapt whether chasing 180 or 200. For a pitch that favors run-scoring but offers occasional spinner assistance, having these middle-order batsmen is essential to prevent middle-over stagnation.

All-Rounders Offer Depth and Tactical Advantage

All-rounders like Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Mohammad Nabi are vital in both batting and bowling roles. Their inclusion in the team combination allows Rashid Khan to operate as a strike bowler while retaining attacking options. Naib’s medium pace and Nabi’s off-spin can exploit any uneven bounce or turn, while Omarzai provides an additional seam option in case of the UAE’s counterattack. On a flat deck, all-rounders also provide Afghanistan with batting depth, which is critical when the top order fails to fire.

Spin and Pace Bowling Balance

Afghanistan’s bowling setup blends wrist spin, off-spin, and pace. Rashid Khan’s legbreaks, Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s off-spin, and Noor Ahmad’s left-arm wrist spin form a spin-heavy middle overs strategy. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai offer pace penetration upfront and at death. In AFG Playing XI vs UAE, this bowling mix is chosen to exploit the slightly dry surface while anticipating dew later in the evening, allowing spin to skid through and pacers to hit the blockholes effectively.

Pitch-Fit Selections for Delhi Conditions

A flat Arun Jaitley surface means the XI should be built with the game plan front and center. Afghanistan’s selectors have prioritized aggressive stroke-makers and versatile bowlers. With short boundaries and a fast outfield, the team combination ensures quick scoring while retaining tactical bowling depth. Evening dew will favor chasing, and this XI is designed to exploit that by keeping bowlers fresh and batsmen adaptable to mid-innings acceleration.

In summary, the AFG Playing XI vs UAE is likely to combine explosive openers, a resilient middle order, multi-dimensional all-rounders, and a spin-pace mix tailored to Arun Jaitley Stadium. This XI maximizes batting potential in short-boundary conditions while keeping bowling threats versatile. If Afghanistan executes this plan, they could post or chase a formidable total comfortably. Selecting the right XI isn’t just about names—it’s about crafting a unit built for Delhi’s unique challenges, where every boundary and wicket counts.

Key Takeaway

Afghanistan’s XI is a calculated blend of firepower, depth, and tactical versatility designed for a high-scoring chase at Delhi.

FAQs

Q1: What time will the AFG vs UAE match start?

The 28th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup starts at IST 11:30 AM

Q2: How do Delhi pitch conditions affect Afghanistan’s team selection?

The flat deck and short boundaries favor aggressive batting and versatile bowlers who can exploit skid and dew.

Q3: Which player is most crucial in Afghanistan’s probable XI?

Rashid Khan is pivotal, leading the bowling attack while providing stability in the batting order.

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.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!