Afghanistan defeated Ireland by three wickets in the third match of their ODI series at Belfast, with Rashid Khan playing a decisive role in the successful chase. The victory not only gave Afghanistan a 2-0 lead in the series but also confirmed their place at next year’s ODI World Cup, marking their fourth consecutive appearance at the prestigious tournament.
Ireland struggle to build a big total
Afghanistan won the toss and opted to bowl first, and their decision quickly paid dividends as Ireland found it difficult to establish momentum with the bat. The hosts were eventually bowled out for 206 in 46.3 overs. Paul Stirling provided a brisk start with 23 off 31 balls, while Andy Balbirnie could manage only seven. Cade Carmichael offered some resistance with a patient 32 from 52 deliveries, but Ireland kept losing wickets at regular intervals.
Gavin Hoey emerged as one of Ireland’s better contributors, scoring 36 from 67 balls, while Jai Moondra added an important 31 off 33 deliveries. Benjamin Calitz also chipped in with 20, including Ireland’s only six of the innings. Afghanistan’s bowling attack shared the workload effectively. Allah Ghazanfar and Rashid claimed three wickets apiece, while Yamin Ahmadzai picked up two. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai took one wicket each as Ireland were restricted to a below-par total.
Rahmantullah Gurbaz sets up Afghanistan’s chase
Afghanistan’s pursuit began positively, although Ibrahim Zadran fell for 12 before the innings could fully settle. Sediqullah Atal then struck five boundaries during his 27 off 25 balls, giving the visitors some momentum. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was the standout batter of the chase. The opener produced a composed yet aggressive 71 from 77 deliveries, smashing two fours and five sixes. His innings provided Afghanistan with the platform they needed to stay ahead of the required rate.
Ireland fought back through Hoey, who produced an impressive spell of 4/34 from his 10 overs. Mark Adair also claimed two wickets, while Byron Mcdonough took one. The hosts continued to put pressure on Afghanistan, but the visitors had enough batting depth to keep the chase alive.
Rashid Khan finishes the job with batting brilliance
With wickets falling at regular intervals, Afghanistan needed a composed contribution in the latter stages. Rashid stepped up when his team needed him most, scoring 37 from 43 balls with four boundaries. His innings helped Afghanistan navigate the tense final stages after Omarzai was dismissed for 13. Yamin Ahmadzai added four runs and stayed involved as Afghanistan eventually reached 207/7 in 44.5 overs, completing a three-wicket victory. Rashid’s all-round influence earned him the Player of the Match award, underlining his importance to Afghanistan’s success.
The result carries significance beyond the series itself. Afghanistan’s victory confirmed their qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup, ensuring that they will feature in the global tournament for the fourth consecutive edition. Afghanistan had already strengthened their position with a convincing 92-run victory in the second match, while the opening game of the series was abandoned because of rain. Their latest win now gives them a 2-0 lead with two matches still remaining.
Afghanistan hold their nerve to seal a thrilling 3-wicket victory over Ireland in the 3rd ODI and have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead 🏏💥#IREvAFG #AfghanistanCricket pic.twitter.com/JsTQpY7CL6
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) August 11, 2026
