Afghanistan, Kuwait, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan will battle it out at the Panasonic Stadium in Kuala Lumpur from October 19-27 with the top two, and possibly the third placed side, qualifying for next year’s finals.

Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan will launch the group when they face each other in the first match, after which Uzbekistan take on Pakistan.

Kuwait get their first taste of action on Wednesday when they play against the Uzbeks.

Only the top two teams and best third placed side from Groups A-G qualify for the finals along with the winners of Group H.