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.