Omarzai’s all-round show gives Afghanistan first win, South Africa advance

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Feb 16, 2026

Afghanistan registered their first victory of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 with a five-wicket win over the UAE, a result that also confirmed South Africa’s place in the Super 8 from Group D.

The match, played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, saw Afghanistan chase down a target of 161 with four balls to spare, finishing on 162 for 5. Ibrahim Zadran led the chase with 53 runs, while Azmatullah Omarzai remained unbeaten on 40.

Darwish Rasooli contributed 33, with Sediqullah Atal (16) and Gulbadin Naib (13) adding useful runs. For the UAE, Junaid Siddique and Muhammad Irfan picked up two wickets each, while Muhammad Jawadullah claimed one.

Earlier, the UAE posted 160 for 9 in their 20 overs after being asked to bat first. Sohaib Khan top-scored with 68, and Alishan Sharafu added 40.

Omarzai was the standout performer with the ball for Afghanistan, taking 4 wickets for just 15 runs in his four overs. Mujeeb Ur Rahman claimed two wickets, while captain Rashid Khan took one.

Afghanistan had lost their previous matches against New Zealand and South Africa, but this win earned them their first two points of the tournament.

The UAE also have two points, while Canada remain without a point. Both Afghanistan and the UAE will face Canada in their final group matches.

South Africa, with three wins from three matches and six points, have already secured their place in the Super 8 stage.