West Indies, Afghanistan to play T20I series ahead of WC
What's the story
West Indies and Afghanistan are set to clash in a three-match T20I series in Sharjah next year. The bilateral series will kick off on January 19, just days before the ICC T20 World Cup kicks off in India and Sri Lanka in February. The matches will be played on January 19, 21, and 22. Here are further details.
Strategic significance
CWI director Miles Bascombe's statement
Miles Bascombe, the Director of Cricket for Cricket West Indies (CWI), stressed the importance of this series as a platform for their team's preparation. He said facing strong opposition in subcontinental conditions would help sharpen their combinations and approach. The matches will also give players a chance to build confidence on surfaces similar to those they'll encounter in India and Sri Lanka during the World Cup.
Preparation boost
Naseeb Khan, CEO of Afghanistan Cricket Board's statement
Naseeb Khan, the CEO of Afghanistan Cricket Board, also highlighted the importance of this series. He said competing against West Indies on the brink of a global event is an excellent opportunity for their team to finalize its lineup and enhance preparations for the upcoming mega event in India and Sri Lanka. This bilateral series will be crucial for both teams ahead of the World Cup.