As the three-match T20 series between Afghanistan and Ireland kicks off, all eyes are on Afghanistan, who are eager to secure an early lead after their triumph in the ODI series against the same opponents. However, recent losses against India and Sri Lanka have left Afghanistan hungry for redemption in the T20 format.
On the other hand, Ireland, who struggled in the ODI series, is determined to put up a stronger fight in the shorter format. Despite possessing a formidable fast-bowling attack, Ireland’s lack of quality spinners may prove to be a vulnerability in these conditions.
Teams Preview:
Afghanistan:
Led by the returning Rashid Khan, Afghanistan enters the T20 series with confidence. With strong performances in the ODI series, the team aims to build momentum. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran are in fine form, supported by the middle-order prowess of Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan’s bowling, spearheaded by Khan and supported by Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Naveen-ul-Haq, poses a formidable challenge.
Ireland:
Paul Stirling’s side seeks redemption after their lackluster ODI performance. Stirling, alongside Andrew Balbirnie, anchors the batting, while Joshua Little’s return bolsters the bowling lineup. However, the team must address its spin-bowling weakness to counter Afghanistan effectively.
Predicted Playing XI
Afghanistan Predicted Playing XI:
Rashid Khan (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Nangyal Kharotai, Ijaz Ahmadzai
Ireland Predicted Playing XI:
Paul Stirling (c), Andrew Balbirnie, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Gareth Delany, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young, Joshua Little
Chance of Winning
Who Will Win?
Afghanistan T20 Stats and History
- Total Match Played = 127
- Won = 77
- Loss = 49
- No Result = 1
- Tie = 0
Ireland T20 Stats and History
- Total Match Played = 157
- Won = 67
- Loss = 82
- No Result = 7
- Tie = 1
Afghanistan vs Ireland head-to-head stats
- Total Match Played = 23
- Afghanistan won = 16
- Ireland won = 7
- No Result = 0
Pitch and Weather Conditions:
Sharjah’s hot and humid climate promises a flat surface conducive to high scores. Spinners are expected to play a crucial role on a pitch that favors turn. Batting first would be advantageous, with teams aiming for scores exceeding 200 runs.
Winning Prediction:
With a superior spin-bowling attack and familiarity with the conditions, Afghanistan holds the edge. However, Ireland’s batsmen must rise to the occasion to challenge the confident Afghan side.
Our Winner: Afghanistan Will Win
Expect Afghanistan to clinch victory in the series opener, leveraging their strength in both batting and spin bowling.
As the battle unfolds in Sharjah, cricket fans anticipate an exhilarating clash between two determined sides, each vying for supremacy in the T20 arena.