Rahmat Shah’s 143 powers Afghanistan to series‑sealing win against Ireland

Afghanistan secured a clean sweep of Ireland in the five‑match ODI series after a dominant performance at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Belfast, on 15 August. Ireland posted 298 for 7 after batting first. Their innings saw contributions from Andrew Balbournie (13), captain Paul Sterling (34) and a middle‑order partnership between Ked Carmichael and Harry Tucker, but they fell short of a defendable total.

Afghanistan’s response was anchored by captain Rahmat Shah, who crafted an unbeaten 143 off 133 deliveries, striking two sixes and thirteen fours. He was ably supported by Sedikullah Atal, who scored 98 in 112 balls with three sixes and seven fours, forming a 201‑run stand that turned the match. Ajmattullah Omarjai added a quick 24 off 14 balls. Afghanistan chased down the target in 48.5 overs, winning by six wickets and sealing a 4‑0 series victory. Bowling highlights featured Omarjai’s three wickets, MM Ghanfar’s two, and single wickets from Mohammad Salim and Nangeliya Kharoti.