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By Ishaan Kapoor — 10 August 2026 — 4 min read

Afghanistan has taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in their five-match ODI series against Ireland, following a three-wicket victory in the third match. The series lead was established after the first ODI was washed out, and Afghanistan secured a 92-run win in the second match.

In the third ODI, Afghanistan successfully chased down Ireland’s total of 206, reaching the target with three wickets to spare. The match, described as a low-scoring contest by Afghanistan captain Rahmat Shah, saw tense moments, particularly in the closing stages. Shah expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, highlighting the bowlers’ adherence to plans based on field placements and match situations. He specifically praised Yamin Ahmadzai, Rashid Khan, and AM Ghazanfar for their intelligent assessment of conditions.

Ireland’s captain, Paul Stirling, reflected on his team’s ability to compete, noting that they were ahead during the Powerplay. Stirling suggested that an additional 20 or 30 runs could have altered the outcome. He described the pitch as tricky, initially assisting seamers before becoming conducive to spinners. Stirling believed that a total of 220 or 230 runs might have been sufficient on the surface. He commended the batting efforts of Jai Moondra and Gavin Hoey, who made batting appear easier compared to Ireland’s top-order batters. Stirling also pointed out that the heavy roller used during the interval significantly changed the pitch conditions, and Afghanistan’s bowlers capitalized on the best of the first 10 overs.

Key Performances in the Third ODI

Rashid Khan was named Player of the Match for his all-round contribution in the third ODI. He recorded bowling figures of 3/44 from 10 overs and scored an unbeaten 37 runs from 43 balls with the bat. His calm presence was crucial in the final moments of the chase, as he kept the scoreboard ticking under pressure from the Irish attack. Yamin Ahmadzai also contributed with a stubborn 4 runs off 26 balls, ensuring his wicket remained intact.

Earlier in Afghanistan’s chase of 207, Rahmanullah Gurbaz provided a strong start, scoring 71 runs off 77 balls. He received support from Sediqullah Atal and Hashmatullah Shahidi. However, Ireland’s Gavin Hoey delivered a game-changing spell, dismissing Gurbaz in the 29th over and later removing Darwish Rasooli. When Mark Adair dismissed Azmatullah Omarzai for 13, Afghanistan found themselves in a challenging position at 176/7, giving Ireland a renewed hope for an upset.

In Ireland’s innings, after electing to field first, Afghanistan made an early breakthrough with Fazalhaq Farooqi. However, Paul Stirling and Cade Carmichael built a 44-run partnership. The momentum shifted when Afghanistan’s spin duo, Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar (3/29) and Rashid Khan (3/44), dismantled Ireland’s middle order, leaving them at 128/8. Despite this, Gavin Hoey and Jai Moondra formed a significant 76-run partnership for the ninth wicket, helping Ireland reach a competitive total of 206. Yamin Ahmadzai eventually broke this stand, finishing with figures of 2/35 as Ireland was bowled out in the final overs.

Second ODI Highlights

In the second ODI, Afghanistan secured a decisive 92-run victory over Ireland. Rashid Khan was instrumental in this win, taking six wickets. His performance included figures of 6-34, marking his third instance of taking six wickets in ODI cricket. His best bowling figures in the format remain 7-18 against the West Indies in 2017.

Khan’s impact began with the dismissal of Andy Balbirnie, caught behind, which ended a 72-run partnership with Cade Carmichael. In the subsequent over, he also had Harry Tector caught behind. Ireland’s collapse intensified when they lost seven wickets for 63 runs, ultimately being bowled out for 207 while chasing a target of 300. The match, reduced to 47 overs per side due to rain, saw Ireland needing 156 runs from 137 balls with seven wickets remaining when their collapse began. Earlier, Ibrahim Zadran top-scored for Afghanistan with 84 runs, contributing to their total of 299-8.

Ireland captain Paul Stirling emphasized the need for his team to continue developing and achieve a complete 100-over performance. He noted that the team is currently producing strong passages of play in isolation and the challenge lies in maintaining that improvement in upcoming matches. The series is set to continue with the fourth ODI on Wednesday, August 12.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com