Afghanistan defeated Canada by 82 runs in Group D of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on Thursday 19 February 2026, with the match starting at 19:00 IST (UTC+5:30). MA Chidambaram Stadium holds 50,000 spectators and is among the oldest international cricket grounds in India, with a rich history of hosting Test and ODI cricket since the 1930s.

Afghanistan’s 82-run winning margin was their most comprehensive result of the group stage and one of the largest victories of the entire tournament. Against Canada, Afghanistan’s bowling attack, featuring some of the world’s most skilled spinners and pace bowlers, dismantled the batting lineup in a performance that underlined just how far Afghan cricket has developed.

Afghanistan’s cricket journey is one of sport’s most remarkable modern stories. The national team emerged from extraordinary adversity, their founding players learning cricket in refugee camps in Pakistan during the country’s most difficult decades. By 2026, players like Rashid Khan had become global superstars and Afghanistan had secured Full Member status, the formal recognition of their place among cricket’s leading nations.

Canada’s cricket program, boosted by co-hosting the 2024 T20 World Cup, continues to develop through their multicultural community. Facing Afghanistan’s quality bowling in Chennai was a significant challenge, and the 82-run defeat reflected the difference in tournament experience between a side that has competed at the highest level consistently and one still building their foundation.

Timezone conversions for the 19:00 IST (UTC+5:30) start: India: 19:00 IST, London: 13:30 GMT, New York: 08:30 EST, Sydney: 00:30 AEDT.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 was the 10th edition, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, featuring 20 teams across 55 matches between 7 February and 8 March 2026. India defeated New Zealand in the final at Ahmedabad. Afghanistan’s dominant win over Canada confirmed their Group D qualification for the Super Eights.

For timezone conversions, check Chennai time, Afghanistan time, and Canada time.