Afghanistan thrash Ireland by 30 runs in first ODI

KABUL on Wednesday thrashed Ireland by 30 runs in their first of a five-ODI series in the Indian capital, New Delhi.

Afghanistan won the toss and decided to bat in the 50-over game, posting a strong 292 total for Ireland to chase.

Afghanistan got off to an impressive start, with opening partnership breaking on 68 when Mohammad Shahzad was dismissed for 43 off 47 balls.

Rahmat Shah and Noor Ali Zadran then played responsibly with the bat and Zadran hit a classic 50 and made 51 off 71 deliveries and Rahmat Shah 78 off 92.

All rounder Nabi’s quick-fired 34 off 19 balls helped his side reach 292.

In response, Ireland could not chase the target despite’s skipper WTS Porterfield’s heroic 119 off 98 balls.

The Irish middle order collapsed as they were unable to maintain the momentum provided by their openers.

Afghan bowlers made a strong comeback dismissing the Irish middle order batsmen in quick succession.

The entire Ireland battling line collapsed at 262 and Afghanistan won the first ODI by 30 runs.

From Afghanistan Dawlat Zadran Zadran and Rashid Khan took four wickets each and Hamza Hotak grabs two wickets.

Ireland William Porterfield is the Man of the Match for his century.

Afghan Skipper Asghar Stanikzai said in the end of match “Every series, the first game is very important. Porterfield and Stirling played very well.”

 Credit goes to Rashid Khan and Dawlat Zadran and it proved to be a very good comeback. The old ball is good for reverse swing and Dawlat is an experienced bowler which is capable of reversing it. That’s why the game opened. He added.

Afghan International Company General Petroleum is the main sponsor of the 5 ODIs series between Afghanistan and Ireland.

nh/ma

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