Afghanistan qualify for 2027 World Cup after beating Ireland in third ODI

BELFAST: Afghanistan defeated Ireland by seven wickets in the third ODI of the five-match series at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont, on Monday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead.

The victory also secured Afghanistan’s direct qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, which will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Rashid Khan kept his composure during the closing stages to guide Afghanistan over the line and complete a convincing victory.

After being put in to bat, Ireland were bowled out for 206 in 46.3 overs, with Afghanistan’s spinners dominating proceedings.

AM Ghazanfar and Rashid led the bowling attack with three wickets each, while Yamin Ahmadzai claimed two wickets. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai chipped in with one wicket apiece.

Gavin Hoey top-scored for Ireland with 36 off 67 deliveries, including two boundaries, while Cade Carmichael contributed 32 off 52 balls with four boundaries.

Jai Moondra, batting at No. 10, played a fighting knock of 31 off 33 deliveries, including five boundaries. Captain Paul Stirling scored 23 off 31 balls with three boundaries, while Ben Calitz added 20 off 29 deliveries.

Chasing 207, Afghanistan reached the target for the loss of three wickets in 44.5 overs after a solid start from their opening pair.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran put together a 50-run opening partnership before Ireland struck.

Gurbaz top-scored for Afghanistan with a match-winning 71 off 77 deliveries, hitting two boundaries and five sixes.

Rashid then provided the finishing touch with an unbeaten 37 off 43 deliveries, including four boundaries, while Sediqullah Atal scored 27 off 25 balls with five boundaries.

Hashmatullah Shahidi contributed 22 off 24 deliveries, including a boundary and a six.

For Ireland, Hoey was the pick of the bowlers, claiming four wickets for 34 runs in his 10 overs. Mark Adair took two wickets, while Byron McDonough picked up one.