Afghanistan outclass Ireland to clinch Desert T20 Cup

KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghanistan humiliated Ireland to clinch the inaugural Desert T20 Challenge Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), an official said on Saturday.

Ireland won the toss and decided to bat first, but they failed to set Afghanistan a formidable total, said Farid Hotak, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) spokesman.

They were bundled out for 71 runs in 13.2 overs. In a brilliant bowling spell, Mohammad Nabi took four vital wickets to restrict the opposition to a small total.

In response opener Shahzad’s 40-ball 52 and Nawroz Mangal’s 17 off eight deliveries saw Afghanistan lift the trophy at stake. 

ACB head Atif Mashal, Executive Officer Shafiq Stanikzai, the Afghan consul general and MP Hamidzai Lalai were special guests who presented medals and prizes to the finalists.  

Nawroz Mangal, who played his farewell game, thanked ACB officials and fans for their support and expressed pleasure over the remarkable outcome of the final game in his career.

nh/mud

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