Ireland collapses for 207 as Afghanistan clinch series lead

Ireland’s batting line‑up crumbled under pressure in the second ODI against Afghanistan. After a shaky start with captain Paul Stirling dismissed for five, the Irish side managed a 72‑run stand between Andrew Balbirnie (36) and Cad Carmichael (62). However, Rashid Khan’s lethal bowling turned the tide, picking up six wickets and leaving Ireland at 198/5. The lower order added only ten runs in the final 25 balls, bowing out for 207 in 33.4 overs. Afghanistan, who had set a target of 300 in a rain‑reduced 47‑over innings, celebrated a 92‑run victory, taking a 1‑0 lead in the series after the first match was abandoned.