Afghanistan won their second One-Day International (ODI) against Ireland by 92 runs at Bready on Saturday. Rashid Khan took an impressive six wickets for just 34 runs, helping Afghanistan secure a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
The first match was abandoned without play due to wet conditions, but Afghanistan made the most of their second chance. They easily defended their total of 299/8 as Ireland were bowled out for 207 in 42.5 overs.
Ireland seemed to be in control at 144/3 in the 24th over, needing 156 runs from 137 balls with seven wickets remaining. However, a sudden run-out of Lorcan Tucker caused a collapse, leading Ireland to lose seven wickets for just 63 runs.
Cade Carmichael was Ireland’s top scorer with 62 runs, and Andy Balbirnie added 36. They combined for 72 runs before Rashid Khan broke the partnership by getting Balbirnie out. Later, Curt Campher and Ben Calitz added 46 runs quickly but couldn’t save their team as Rashid took three more wickets.
Afghanistan chose to bat first after a delayed toss due to a wet outfield. Rahmanullah Gurbaz started strongly with 32 runs before being caught. Sediqullah Atal and Ibrahim Zadran then scored 116 runs together, with Zadran reaching 84 before being dismissed.
In the final overs, Azmatullah Omarzai hit 33 quick runs, and Hashmatullah Shahidi finished unbeaten with 36 in just 21 balls. Their efforts helped Afghanistan reach a strong total of 299/8.
Afghanistan will aim to extend their lead in the third ODI, while Ireland will need a better performance to stay competitive in the series.