Cricket in Asia and the Middle East is evolving rapidly, and two teams symbolize this progress—the Afghanistan vs UAE. Their contests are gaining attention not just regionally but across the global cricket community.
Every Afghanistan vs UAE match scorecard reflects more than runs and wickets. It tells stories of resilience, determination, and the growing hunger of emerging cricketing nations. This blog explores their journeys, performance history, player lineups, strengths, weaknesses, and where to watch UAE vs AFG live. We’ll also address FAQs for fans who closely follow this rivalry.
The Rise of the Afghanistan National Cricket Team
The Afghanistan national cricket team is one of the most inspiring stories in modern cricket. Emerging from challenging circumstances, the team worked its way up the ladder to secure Full ICC Membership in 2017—a landmark moment in cricket history.
Key Milestones
- ODI status achieved in 2009.
- Qualified for the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup.
- Produced world-class stars like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
- Consistently ranked among the top 10 in T20 internationals.
- Known for their fearless batting and unmatched spin depth.
Their story is about defying odds, fueled by passion and national pride.
The Rise of the United Arab Emirates National Cricket Team
The United Arab Emirates national cricket team has carved out its place on the international stage. With a blend of local talent and expatriate players, UAE cricket reflects the country’s diverse sporting culture.
Key Milestones
- First ICC World Cup appearance in 1996, followed by another in 2015.
- Governed by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB).
- Competes in ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 and T20 World Cup qualifiers.
- Notable players include Muhammad Waseem, Chirag Suri, and Rohan Mustafa.
- Supported by world-class facilities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Though still developing consistency against higher-ranked teams, UAE has shown resilience and strong potential.
Afghanistan vs UAE: The Developing Rivalry
Afghanistan vs UAE contests are becoming more frequent due to ICC’s scheduling of matches between full and associate members. Afghanistan usually goes in as favorites, but UAE’s growing strength ensures competitive encounters.
Past Encounters
- Afghanistan has dominated both ODIs and T20Is, often using their spin attack to outclass UAE batters.
- UAE has, however, delivered spirited performances in qualifiers and regional tournaments.
- Scorecards often favor Afghanistan, but cricket fans know UAE has the talent to spring surprises.
Afghanistan vs UAE Team Lineups
Probable Afghanistan XI
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK)
- Hazratullah Zazai
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Najibullah Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi (C)
- Rashid Khan
- Karim Janat
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
Probable UAE XI
- Muhammad Waseem (C)
- Chirag Suri
- Vriitya Aravind (WK)
- Basil Hameed
- Rohan Mustafa
- Asif Khan
- Ali Naseer
- Karthik Meiyappan
- Zahoor Khan
- Junaid Siddique
- Ahmed Raza
Lineups change depending on formats, injuries, and match conditions.
Afghanistan vs UAE: Strengths and Weaknesses
Afghanistan
Strengths
- Dominant spin trio: Rashid Khan, Nabi, and Mujeeb.
- Explosive batting from openers like Gurbaz and Zazai.
- Outstanding T20 record.
Weaknesses
- Vulnerable middle-order under pressure.
- Pace attack still developing compared to spinners.
UAE
Strengths
- Reliable top order with Waseem and Suri.
- Strong all-rounders like Rohan Mustafa.
- World-class facilities aiding preparation.
Weaknesses
- Struggles against elite spin bowling.
- Limited exposure against top-tier cricket nations.
Recent Form
- Afghanistan: Strong in T20s with victories over Bangladesh and solid ICC performances.
- UAE: Improving steadily with notable wins in qualifiers and competitive cricket against stronger sides.
While Afghanistan usually dominates, UAE’s steady growth makes every match a potential thriller.
Afghanistan National Cricket Team vs United Arab Emirates National Cricket Team Match Scorecard
Match scorecards highlight the contrast:
- Afghanistan often posts quick, high totals.
- Their spinners defend totals with ruthless accuracy.
- UAE relies on partnerships and steady batting to stay in contention.
For fans, these scorecards are not just statistics but a way to track rising stars and the progress of two ambitious cricketing nations.
Where to Watch Afghanistan vs UAE Live
Fans can catch UAE vs AFG live streaming and broadcasts on:
- Star Sports Network (India & Asia)
- OSN Sports Cricket HD (UAE & Middle East)
- RTA Sports (Afghanistan)
- FanCode (India digital platform)
- ICC.tv (global coverage of qualifiers and associate matches)
- YouTube ICC official channel (select games)
Check regional listings as rights may vary by tournament.
Afghanistan vs UAE
The Afghanistan national cricket team vs United Arab Emirates national cricket team match scorecard is more than just numbers—it reflects ambition, resilience, and the rise of emerging cricket nations.
Afghanistan holds the edge with talent and fearless play, but UAE is steadily closing the gap with improved performances and strong infrastructure. Fans can expect more thrilling UAE vs AFG contests in the future as both teams evolve.
Whether you’re following live scores, analyzing lineups, or just enjoying the rivalry, this matchup is a symbol of cricket’s expanding global reach.
FAQs – Afghanistan vs UAE
1. Who usually wins Afghanistan vs UAE matches?
Afghanistan dominates historically, thanks to their depth in batting and world-class spin attack.
2. Where can I watch UAE vs AFG live?
Matches are usually broadcast on RTA Sports, Star Sports, FanCode, and ICC.tv.
3. Who are Afghanistan’s key players?
Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
4. Who are UAE’s key players?
Muhammad Waseem, Chirag Suri, Rohan Mustafa, and Zahoor Khan.
5. Has UAE ever beaten Afghanistan?
While Afghanistan leads the rivalry, UAE has challenged them strongly in qualifiers.
6. What formats do they usually play?
ODIs and T20Is, often in ICC qualifiers and bilateral series.
7. What makes Afghanistan cricket unique?
Fearless batting and a spin attack unmatched by most teams.
