Afghanistan Seeks 3-0 Series Sweep, Chooses to Bowl Against West Indies

Afghanistan Seeks 3-0 Series Sweep, Chooses to Bowl Against West Indies

Afghanistan opted to bowl first after winning the toss against West Indies, aiming for a clean 3-0 series sweep in Dubai. This match marks Afghanistan’s final T20 International before the T20 World Cup.

Match Changes and Teams

Having already secured a 2-0 series lead, Afghanistan made three strategic changes to their lineup. They replaced:

  • Azmatullah Omarzai
  • Noor Ahmad
  • Fazalhaq Farooqi

In their place, Afghanistan welcomed:

  • Shahidullah Kamal (allrounder)
  • Ziaur Rahman Sharfi (fast bowler)
  • Abdollah Ahmadzai (medium-pacer)

For the West Indies, the team made adjustments as well, bringing in:

  • Keacy Carty
  • Justin Greaves

They replaced Alick Athanaze and Evin Lewis. Quentin Sampson, a newcomer in T20Is, retained his spot. Additionally, Shamar Springer took over for Shamar Joseph in the bowling department.

Bowling Strategy

The spin attack for West Indies will be managed by left-arm spinners Gudakesh Motie and Khary Pierre. This match serves as a vital opportunity for fringe players to impress selectors ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Upcoming Tournaments

Following this match, Afghanistan will head into the World Cup, while the West Indies will play a three-match T20I series in South Africa before the global tournament begins on February 7.

Teams Overview

Afghanistan West Indies
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) Brandon King (capt)
Ibrahim Zadran Johnson Charles (wk)
Sediqullah Atal Keacy Carty
Darwish Rasooli Justin Greaves
Mohammad Nabi Shimron Hetmyer
Shahidullah Kamal Quentin Sampson
Gulbadin Naib Matthew Forde
Rashid Khan (capt) Gudakesh Motie
Ziaur Rahman Sharfi Khary Pierre
Abdollah Ahmadzai Shamar Springer
Mujahed Ur Rahman Ramon Simmonds

With the series on the line, both teams are prepared to showcase their skills, making this encounter a significant milestone ahead of the World Cup.