Ireland set decider with Afghanistan on Friday

KABUL by three wickets in their fourth One Day International (ODI) match played on a neutral venue in New Delhi, India, leveling the series 2-2.

Afghanistan won the toss and decided to bat first in the 50 overs game, but the national team’s opening batsmen could not stay on the crease.

Afghanistan were at one stage at six for less than hundred, however, Mohammad Nabi’s 64 off 41 balls, Shafiqullah’s 42 off 42 balls Dawlat Zadran’s 53 off 41 balls helped Afghanistan set Ireland 221 runs target in 49.5 overs.

Ireland bowlers were impressive as Kevin O’Brien got four important wickets followed by Mulder who grabbed three wickets.

In reply, Irish batsmen off to a comfortable start chasing a moderate 221. The Irish side slightly tumbled in the middle but Obrien’s 72 off 60 ball not-out and Wilson’s 41 off 67 balls ensured their side cruising into the victory.

Afghan bowlers could not make early inroads to put the Irish side under pressure. All rounder Nabi picked four wickets and Rashid Khan grabbed two wickets in the match but wasn’t threatening and leaked runs.

Now the decider is set to be a cracking one on 24th March.

Afghan International Company General Petroleum is the main sponsor of the series between Afghanistan and Ireland.

nh/ma

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