Afghanistan secured a dominant 3-0 lead in their five-match ODI series against Ireland after a 42-run victory in the fourth contest held in Belfast. The win was anchored by brilliant centuries from Sediqullah Atal and Ibrahim Zadran, who combined for a massive 231-run partnership for the second wicket after the team was put in to bat.
Sediqullah Atal delivered a career-best performance, scoring 143 runs off 120 balls with 17 fours and four sixes, reaching his milestone in 98 balls. Ibrahim Zadran contributed 107 runs from 118 deliveries, hitting his century off 114 balls. Despite early pressure from Ireland’s bowlers, including Byron McDonough who took 3-84, and Mark Adair who claimed 2-60, Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 343 for 9. Contributions from Darwish Rasooli, who made 24, and Azmatullah Omarzai with 15, helped solidify the total.
In response, Ireland struggled to maintain the required run rate despite a steady start. Paul Stirling and Andy Balbirnie put on 48 for the first wicket before Allah Ghazanfar dismissed Stirling for 27. Yamin Ahmadzai added to Ireland's woes by removing Cade Carmichael for five. Although Andy Balbirnie fought hard, scoring 109 off 119 balls, and Curtis Campher provided a late spark with a rapid 84 off 46 balls, the chase faltered as wickets continued to tumble.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack remained disciplined, with Yamin Ahmadzai finishing with impressive figures of 4-71 and Rashid Khan claiming 3-49. Ireland was eventually bowled out for 301 in 48 overs. The result ensures a series win for Afghanistan, who showcased superior consistency throughout the match.
