Afghanistan vs Ireland Prediction, 4th ODI 2026: Match Prediction, Playing XI, Pitch Report
The Afghanistan vs Ireland prediction for the fourth ODI of the five-match series points towards another competitive contest at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
Afghanistan currently lead the series 2-0 after winning the second and third ODIs, while the opening match was abandoned because of rain. The visitors have dominated both completed matches with strong performances from their batting and bowling departments.
Ireland, meanwhile, are under considerable pressure and need a victory to keep themselves alive in the series. Their batting has shown promising individual performances, particularly through Cade Carmichael and Gavin Hoey, but the team has struggled to convert starts into substantial totals.
Afghanistan have looked more settled throughout the series. Ibrahim Zadran scored 84 in the second ODI, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz followed it with a crucial 71 in the third match. Sediqullah Atal and Hashmatullah Shahidi have also made useful contributions.
The biggest difference between the sides has arguably been Afghanistan’s bowling attack, led by Rashid Khan. The star spinner has taken nine wickets across the two completed matches, including six wickets in the second ODI and three in the third.
Ireland will need a much better strategy against him if they want to avoid another batting collapse. At the same time, Gavin Hoey’s four-wicket performance in the previous match gives Ireland reason for optimism.
The hosts have experienced players such as Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, Harry Tector and Curtis Campher, but their top order must deliver a bigger contribution. Civil Service Cricket Club has already seen Afghanistan perform successfully during this series, giving the visitors confidence heading into the fourth encounter.
Afghanistan also have a superior head-to-head record, having now won 20 matches against Ireland’s 13. With Gurbaz leading the series run-scoring charts with 103 runs and Rashid Khan dominating the bowling statistics with nine wickets, Afghanistan enter the contest as favourites.
Ireland will need a complete performance with both bat and ball to change the momentum. Based on the supplied prediction, Afghanistan have a 68% chance of winning, while Ireland have a 32% chance. The overall prediction is therefore Afghanistan to win the fourth ODI.
Afghanistan vs Ireland 4th ODI Match Details
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Afghanistan vs Ireland |
| Match Number | 4th ODI |
| Series | Afghanistan Tour of Ireland 2026 |
| Date | Wednesday, August 12, 2026 |
| Time | 3:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Civil Service Cricket Club, Belfast, Ireland |
| Format | ODI |
| Series Score | Afghanistan lead 2-0 |
| Toss Prediction | Afghanistan |
| Match Prediction | Afghanistan to win |
Ireland Preview
Ireland enter the fourth ODI under pressure after losing the second and third matches of the series.
The first ODI was abandoned due to rain, but Afghanistan won the next two completed matches convincingly.
Ireland’s biggest concern has been their batting consistency.
In the second ODI, Ireland were bowled out for 207 while chasing Afghanistan’s total of 299.
Cade Carmichael provided the strongest resistance with 62 runs, while Andrew Balbirnie contributed 36.
The third ODI followed a similar pattern.
Ireland managed only 206 after losing wickets regularly throughout the innings.
Paul Stirling and Cade Carmichael initially attempted to rebuild the innings, putting together a 44-run partnership for the second wicket.
However, once that partnership was broken, Ireland slipped to 128/8 in the 30th over.
Gavin Hoey and Jai Moondra then produced an important lower-order recovery.
Hoey scored 36, while Moondra contributed 31, helping Ireland cross the 200-run mark.
Carmichael has been Ireland’s leading batter in the series with 94 runs across the two completed matches.
His ability to occupy the crease will again be important.
Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie are experienced international batters, but they need to provide a stronger platform at the top of the innings.
Harry Tector is another important middle-order player who can help Ireland build partnerships.
The bowling attack has shown encouraging signs.
Mark Adair has taken four wickets across the second and third ODIs.
Gavin Hoey was particularly impressive in the third match, claiming four wickets.
Jai Moondra also contributed with two wickets in the second ODI.
However, Ireland’s bowlers have struggled to consistently restrict Afghanistan’s batting lineup.
The Afghan top order has been capable of building competitive totals, while Rashid Khan and the lower order have provided valuable depth.
Ireland therefore need early wickets.
If they can remove Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal cheaply, the pressure on Afghanistan’s middle order will increase considerably.
The hosts also need their senior batters to handle Afghanistan’s spin attack more effectively.
Rashid Khan has taken nine wickets in the series and has been named Player of the Match in both completed games.
Ireland cannot afford another collapse against him.
A strong powerplay, better middle-over batting and disciplined bowling will be essential.
Ireland have enough experience to challenge Afghanistan, but they need their key players to perform simultaneously.
The fourth ODI represents an important opportunity to regain momentum.
Key Players
- Cade Carmichael
- Paul Stirling
- Andrew Balbirnie
- Gavin Hoey
- Mark Adair
- Harry Tector
Ireland Team Squad
| Squad |
| Paul Stirling (c) |
| Mark Adair |
| Andrew Balbirnie |
| Ben Calitz |
| Curtis Campher |
| Cade Carmichael |
| George Dockrell |
| Gavin Hoey |
| Andrew McBrine |
| Liam McCarthy |
| Byron McDonough |
| Jai Moondra |
| Harry Tector |
| Lorcan Tucker |
Ireland Probable Playing XI
| No. | Player | Role |
| 1 | Andrew Balbirnie | Batter |
| 2 | Paul Stirling (C) | Captain / Batter |
| 3 | Caden Carmichael | Batter |
| 4 | Harry Tector | Batter |
| 5 | Lorcan Tucker (WK) | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| 6 | Curtis Campher | All-rounder |
| 7 | Benjamin Calitz | All-rounder |
| 8 | Mark Adair | Bowler / All-rounder |
| 9 | Gavin Hoey | Bowler / All-rounder |
| 10 | Jai Moondra | Bowler |
| 11 | Byron McDonough | Bowler |
Afghanistan Preview
Afghanistan have established a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series.
The opening match was washed out, but the visitors have dominated both completed games.
Their batting has been led by a strong top order.
In the second ODI, Afghanistan posted 299/8 in a rain-reduced 47-over contest.
Ibrahim Zadran was the leading contributor with a composed 84.
Sediqullah Atal scored 45, while Hashmatullah Shahidi remained unbeaten on 36.
Azmatullah Omarzai also provided a quick 33 from 24 deliveries.
The batting unit showed good awareness of the conditions and produced enough runs for the bowlers to attack Ireland.
In the third ODI, Rahmanullah Gurbaz became the main batting hero.
The wicketkeeper-batter scored 71 from 77 balls, including five sixes.
His innings proved crucial as Afghanistan chased Ireland’s 206-run total.
Gurbaz now leads Afghanistan’s run-scoring charts in the series with 103 runs.
Ibrahim Zadran has scored 96, while Sediqullah Atal has contributed 72.
The biggest weapon remains Rashid Khan.
The legendary spinner has taken nine wickets in the two completed matches.
He claimed 6/34 in the second ODI and followed that with 3/44 in the third.
His ability to take wickets in the middle overs has repeatedly changed the course of matches.
AM Ghazanfar also contributed three wickets in the third ODI.
Azmatullah Omarzai took two wickets in the second match, while Fazalhaq Farooqi remains another important pace option.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack has therefore been disciplined and versatile.
The team also has considerable batting depth.
Rashid Khan demonstrated that in the third ODI by scoring an unbeaten 37 when Afghanistan were under pressure during the chase.
That lower-order contribution helped the visitors reach the target in the 45th over with three wickets remaining.
Rahmat Shah’s leadership has also helped Afghanistan maintain composure.
The side has performed well in both departments and has repeatedly responded when Ireland created pressure.
The fourth ODI gives Afghanistan the opportunity to seal the series.
Their biggest advantage is the combination of experienced batters and world-class spin.
If Gurbaz and Zadran provide another solid opening partnership and Rashid continues his current form, Ireland could again face a difficult challenge.
Afghanistan will enter the match with confidence after winning both completed games.
Their superior head-to-head record and current series momentum further strengthen their position.
Key Players
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Sediqullah Atal
- Rahmat Shah
- Rashid Khan
- Azmatullah Omarzai
Afghanistan Team Squad
| Squad |
| Rahmat Shah (c) |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz (vc) |
| Ibrahim Zadran |
| Sediqullah Atal |
| Hashmatullah Shahidi |
| Darwish Rasooli |
| Azmatullah Omarzai |
| Ikram Alikhil (WK) |
| Nangyal Kharoti |
| Rashid Khan |
| AM Ghazanfar |
| Yamin Ahmadzai |
| Saleem Safi |
| Fazalhaq Farooqi |
| Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi |
Afghanistan Probable Playing XI
| No. | Player | Role |
| 1 | Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK) | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| 2 | Ibrahim Zadran | Batter |
| 3 | Sediqullah Atal | Batter |
| 4 | Rahmat Shah (C) | Captain / Batter |
| 5 | Hashmatullah Shahidi | Batter |
| 6 | Azmatullah Omarzai | All-rounder |
| 7 | Darwish Rasooli | Batter / All-rounder |
| 8 | Rashid Khan | Spinner / All-rounder |
| 9 | Yamin Ahmadzai | Bowler |
| 10 | Allah Ghazanfar | Spinner |
| 11 | Fazalhaq Farooqi | Fast Bowler |
Favourite Team in Today’s Match β Afghanistan
Afghanistan are the clear favourite for the fourth ODI based on their performances in the series.
They currently lead 2-0 and have won both completed matches.
Their batting has produced competitive totals and successful chases, while the bowling attack has consistently put Ireland under pressure.
Rashid Khan is the biggest reason for Afghanistan’s advantage.
He has already taken nine wickets in the series, including six wickets in the second ODI.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz is also in good form and leads Afghanistan’s run charts with 103 runs.
Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal provide further batting stability.
Afghanistan also possess greater confidence after repeatedly winning important moments against Ireland.
The visitors have now extended their overall head-to-head advantage to 20 wins against Ireland’s 13.
Ireland have shown fight, particularly through Gavin Hoey and Cade Carmichael, but they need a complete performance.
Favourite Team: Afghanistan
Pitch Report β Civil Service Cricket Club
The Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast has already hosted matches during this series, giving both teams some familiarity with the conditions. Afghanistan have performed strongly at the venue, while Ireland have struggled to convert starts into competitive totals. The surface can reward disciplined bowling, particularly when bowlers maintain consistent lines and lengths. Batters who spend time at the crease can score runs, but careless stroke-making could result in wickets. Afghanistan’s spin attack, led by Rashid Khan, remains a major factor. Ireland will need to build partnerships rather than rely exclusively on aggressive batting. A first-innings total around 230-250 could be competitive.
Weather Report
| Weather Factor | Prediction |
| Venue | Civil Service Cricket Club, Belfast |
| Date | Wednesday, August 12, 2026 |
| Match Time | 3:30 PM IST |
| Conditions | Cool and potentially cloudy |
| Rain Risk | Important factor |
| Wind | Possible |
| Pitch Impact | Bowling could benefit |
Weather Summary: Weather has already affected this ODI series, with the opening match abandoned because of rain. Both teams will therefore be monitoring conditions closely. Cloud cover and moisture could assist seam bowling, while any rain interruption may alter the match strategy.
Broadcast Details
The Afghanistan vs Ireland fourth ODI is scheduled to be broadcast on FanCode, according to the supplied information. The match will take place at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast on Wednesday, August 12, with play scheduled to begin at 3:30 PM IST. Viewers should check FanCode for the latest streaming availability and regional coverage information before the match.
Toss Prediction
Toss Winner Prediction: Afghanistan
Afghanistan are predicted to win the toss in the fourth ODI.
If Afghanistan win the toss, the decision could depend on the weather and pitch conditions.
With rain having already affected the series, captains may prefer to assess the surface before deciding whether to bat or bowl.
Afghanistan’s strong bowling attack could make defending a competitive total an attractive option.
However, the final decision should depend on the conditions at the time of the toss.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
| Team | Probable Batsman | Why | Probable Bowler | Why |
| Afghanistan | Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Series-leading scorer with 103 runs | Rashid Khan | Nine wickets in the series |
| Afghanistan | Ibrahim Zadran | 96 series runs | AM Ghazanfar | Three wickets in the third ODI |
| Ireland | Cade Carmichael | 94 series runs | Gavin Hoey | Five series wickets |
| Ireland | Paul Stirling | Experienced top-order batter | Mark Adair | Four series wickets |
Rahmanullah Gurbaz is the leading batting candidate for Afghanistan after scoring 103 runs in the series. His 71 in the third ODI was especially important during the successful chase. Ibrahim Zadran is another major threat after scoring 84 in the second ODI and 96 overall. For Ireland, Cade Carmichael has been their most consistent batter with 94 runs across the two completed games. Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie need to provide greater stability at the top. With the ball, Rashid Khan is undoubtedly the standout player. He has taken nine wickets and has won Player of the Match awards in both completed ODIs. AM Ghazanfar has also shown promise after taking three wickets in the third game. Ireland will rely heavily on Gavin Hoey, who claimed four wickets in the previous match, while Mark Adair has four wickets in the series.
Afghanistan vs Ireland Winning Chances?
| Team | Winning Chance | Why They Can Win | Why They May Lose |
| Afghanistan | 68% | 2-0 series lead, stronger batting and Rashid Khan’s form | Ireland’s bowling can create pressure |
| Ireland | 32% | Home conditions and Gavin Hoey’s form | Batting collapses and difficulty against Rashid |
Why Afghanistan Can Win
Afghanistan have won both completed matches and have demonstrated superiority in both batting and bowling.
Rashid Khan has taken nine wickets, while Gurbaz, Zadran and Atal have all contributed with the bat.
Their lower order also showed resilience during the third ODI.
Why Afghanistan Can Lose
Ireland have already shown that their bowling attack can take wickets.
Gavin Hoey’s four-wicket haul in the third ODI demonstrates that Afghanistan’s batters can be put under pressure.
Rain or changing conditions could also reduce the advantage of the stronger side.
Why Ireland Can Win
Ireland have home conditions and several experienced international players.
Cade Carmichael has scored 94 runs in the series, while Gavin Hoey has taken five wickets.
If Stirling, Balbirnie and Tector produce substantial contributions, Ireland could post a much stronger total.
Why Ireland Can Lose
The biggest problem is consistency.
Ireland have been bowled out for 207 and 206 in the two completed matches.
Their senior batters have failed to produce big scores, while Rashid Khan has repeatedly damaged their middle order.
Another batting collapse would make it difficult to challenge Afghanistan.
Afghanistan vs Ireland Match Prediction
Afghanistan are predicted to win the fourth ODI against Ireland and seal the five-match series. The visitors have already established a 2-0 lead and have won both completed matches convincingly. Rahmanullah Gurbaz is leading the series batting charts with 103 runs, while Rashid Khan has taken nine wickets. Ireland will rely on Cade Carmichael, Gavin Hoey and their experienced top order to fight back. However, Afghanistan’s superior balance, current momentum and world-class spin attack make them the stronger side. Our prediction is Afghanistan to win the fourth ODI.
Winner: Afghanistan π
Winning Chances: Afghanistan 68% | Ireland 32%
Toss Prediction: Afghanistan
Afghanistan Expected Score: 249+
Ireland Expected Score: 214+
Match Prediction: Afghanistan to win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
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