Afghanistan take lead over Ireland in ODI series

KABUL have trounced Ireland by 109 runs in the fourth One-Day International (ODI) in the Indian city of Dehradun.

Despite a top-order batting collapse, Afghanistan managed to post a 223-run total at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium on Friday

Chasing the target, Ireland were skittled out for a paltry 114. As a result of the emphatic win, Afghanistan gained a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

Put in to bat, Afghanistan were reduced to 81 for six before Asghar Afghan, Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan chipped in with half-centuries.

Hard-hitting by the trio lifted the national side to 223 all out, Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) spokesman Farid Hotak told Pajhwok Afghan News.

Nabi shone with the willow, scoring a badly-needed 64. He was ably supported by Rashid Khan, who contributed 52. The two put on an 86 runs partnership.

For the opposition, James Cameron-Dow claimed three wickets while Andy McBrine and Boyd Rankin bagged two scalps each, Hotak said.

Asghar Afghan put on a seventh-wicket partnership of 50 runs with Nabi to in Afghanistan’s fight-back before.

In a poor run chase, the ACB spokesman said, Ireland lost wickets at regular intervals. Only four Irish batsmen managed to enter double figures.

Medium-fast bowler Aftab Alam claimed four wickets, conceding 25 runs. Ireland were bundled out for 114 in 35.3 overs. Rashid and Mujeebur Rehman finished with two wickets each.

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