Ireland Falls Short as Afghan Bowlers Secure 2‑0 Advantage

Afghanistan’s bowlers turned the tide in the third One Day International against Ireland, delivering a three‑wicket triumph that puts the visiting side firmly in the driver’s seat of the five‑match series. After the first encounter was abandoned due to rain and the second reduced to 45 overs, the Belfast showdown became a pivotal test of depth and resilience.

Ireland’s innings crumbled after reaching 206 runs in 46.3 overs. Early wickets at 19 (Andrew Balbani, 7) and a mid‑order collapse after Paul Stirling’s 23‑run effort left them at 89 for five. Jay Mundra’s rapid 31 from 33 balls and Gavin Hoe’s steady 36 helped the Irish post a modest total.

Afghan bowlers dominated with disciplined lines. AM Ganjafar and Rashid Khan each claimed three wickets, while Yamin Ahmedzai added a pair, dismantling the Irish batting order. The pressure then shifted to Afghanistan’s chase.

Opening with a 53‑run stand, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Jadran set a solid platform. Gurbaz’s aggressive 71 (5 sixes, 2 fours) anchored the innings, supported by Sedikullah Atal’s 27 and Rashid Khan’s unbeaten 37. The chase concluded in 44.5 overs, sealing a 3‑wicket win and a 2‑0 series lead.