Dhaka, Aug. 29 -- Afghanistan, led by star spinner Rashid Khan, is being widely considered the favorite heading into a Twenty20 tri-series in the UAE, starting Friday. The tournament, also involving Pakistan and hosts UAE, serves as preparation for next month's Asia Cup.

Afghanistan's recent record strengthens its claim. The team reached last year's T20 World Cup semifinals, highlighting its dominance in the shortest format. Over the next 10 days, seven games will be played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the top two sides advancing to the Sept. 7 final.

The slow Sharjah pitches give Afghanistan an edge. Their spin-heavy attack includes Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, veteran allrounder Mohammad Nabi, uncapped youngster AM Ghazanfar, an...