The visitors have won the toss and elected to bowl first, backing their attack to put early pressure on Ireland. Afghanistan have made one change to their XI, with Yamin Ahmadzai coming in for Mohammad Saleem Safi. Ireland, meanwhile, have kept faith with the same playing eleven from the previous game.
The second ODI highlighted Afghanistan’s strength. Ireland were bowled out while chasing 300, collapsing dramatically after losing their final seven wickets for just 63 runs. Rashid Khan was the chief destroyer, claiming a sensational six-wicket haul and turning the chase decisively in Afghanistan’s favour. Earlier, Ibrahim Zadran’s composed 84 provided the foundation for Afghanistan’s total.
Ireland will need a much-improved batting display, with Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, Harry Tector and Lorcan Tucker expected to play key roles. Clear and sunny weather should provide both teams with a full opportunity to compete. The pressure is firmly on Ireland, while Afghanistan will be eager to finish the series with another strong performance.
