Welcome to the electrifying Sharjah Cricket Stadium, where Afghanistan and Ireland are poised for the 3rd ODI showdown in their gripping three-match series. After Afghanistan's dominant performance in the series opener, claiming a 1-0 advantage, anticipation is high for another intense battle.
In the first ODI, Afghanistan exhibited batting prowess, spearheaded by Gurbaz's remarkable century – his 6th in ODIs – ably supported by Zadran and skipper Shahidi's half-centuries, setting a daunting target of 311 runs. Despite Ireland's brave chase, led by Tector and Tucker's impressive innings of 138 and 85 runs respectively, Farooqi's impactful 4-wicket haul ensured Afghanistan's victory.
However, the second ODI was thwarted by rain, leaving the match abandoned without a single ball bowled. While Afghanistan holds the series lead, Ireland will be eager to level the score.
In comparison with Ireland, Afghanistan possesses a strong top order, especially with Gurbaz in fine form lately.
The betting tip is...
Afghanistan will have the highest opening partnership.
Afghanistan has emerged as the most improved team in limited-overs cricket over recent years. While they've faced challenges in finding a consistent captain, standout individual performances have helped solidify their core squad.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been a pillar of strength in the top order, consistently delivering runs in limited-overs cricket. Azmatullah Omarzai has emerged as a promising all-round talent, boasting an impressive average of 95 in the last 10 matches along with 11 wickets. Their efforts are complemented by the experience of Mohammad Nabi and former captain Gulbadin Naib.
In terms of bowling, Afghanistan relies heavily on their pace spearhead Fazalhaq Farooqi, who has been outstanding both upfront and at the death. However, with the absence of key players like Mujeeb and Rashid, the team will look to Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, and Noor Ahmad to step up and deliver with the ball as they aim to clinch the series.
Gurbaz, Omarzai and Farooqi are the key players.
Predicted Lineup: Rahmaullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Allah Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Led by the seasoned campaigner Paul Stirling, Ireland maintains a strong batting lineup, anchored by consistent performers like Harry Tector and Lorcan Tucker. These two stalwarts will once again play crucial roles in steadying the Irish innings.
Andy Balbirnie shoulders the responsibility of opening the batting, while Curtis Campher provides versatility and depth in the middle order with his all-round abilities.
In terms of bowling, Ireland looks to Mark Adair for inspiration, especially after his significant contributions in their historic Test victory. Adair is the spearhead of the pace attack but had a quiet outing in the last game, emphasising the importance of him, Andy McBrine, and Craig Young stepping up to keep Ireland's hopes alive in the series.
Stirling, Tector and Adair are the key players.
Predicted Lineup: Paul Stirling (c), Andy Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, Theo van Woerkom, Graham Hume, Craig Young
In contrast to Ireland, Afghanistan boasts a more seasoned and well-rounded squad. With Afghanistan riding a wave of momentum, having secured victory in their last 5 encounters against Ireland, the odds appear to heavily favour them in this 3rd ODI.
Their batting strength, spearheaded by the dynamic Rahmanullah Gurbaz and bolstered by Azmatullah Omarzai's versatile skills, presents a formidable challenge to Ireland's bowling lineup.
Nonetheless, Ireland, led by the experienced Paul Stirling, are no easy opponents. Armed with a formidable batting order featuring consistent performers such as Harry Tector and Lorcan Tucker, they possess the firepower to counter Afghanistan's bowling threats.
Having secured their fifth consecutive victory over Ireland in ODI cricket, Afghanistan is determined to maintain their dominance and clinch the series. Brace yourself for an enthralling encounter at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with Afghanistan likely to emerge victorious once more.