AFG vs IRE, 1st ODI | Playing 11 Prediction, Cricket Tips, Preview & Live Streaming

Afghanistan will cross swords with Ireland in Sharjah (X.com)

Afghanistan will be up against Ireland in the first ODI of their three-match series at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on March 07. 

After suffering a 3-0 defeat against Sri Lanka in their previous series, Afghanistan will be eager to bounce back strongly against Ireland in the ODIs.

Team Previews

Afghanistan

The setback against Sri Lanka halted Afghanistan's momentum, particularly after their commendable performance in the ODI World Cup. 

Losing a Test to Ireland in the UAE, a team still finding its footing in Test cricket, came as a surprise and may have unsettled the Afghan players. Their batting struggled against the Irish pacers in the first innings, leading to a low score and putting them at a disadvantage. 

In preparation for the series against Ireland, Afghanistan has made some changes to their squad, introducing Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar, Naneyalia Kharote, and promising young fast bowler Bilal Sami, who brings pace and potential to the team. 

The Afghan team relies on players like Shahidullah Kamal, Zia Ur Rahman, and the prolific batter Ibrahim Zadran, who has been in fine form, scoring 193 runs in his last six innings at an average of 32.16.

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Ireland

After winning their first game, the Irish team must be beaming in full confidence. Skipper Paul Stirling would be happy with the fact that he's having a full strength squad at his disposal. Along with Stirling, Harry Tector, Andre Balbirnie and Lorcan Tucker will take care of the batting department. 

Leading the bowling attack for Ireland will be the in-form Mark Adair, who has taken 24 wickets in his last 17 innings with an average of 30.75. 

However, Ireland will miss the services of Josh Little for this contest. Despite this setback, Ireland boasts other capable bowlers like Graham Hume, who has been impressive, claiming 16 wickets in nine games at an average of 20.31.

AFG vs IRE, 1st ODI: Match Details & Live Streaming

AFG vs IRE, 1st ODI: Sharjah Pitch Report

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium pitch initially favours the new-ball bowlers, providing early assistance. However, as the game progresses, it tends to settle down, allowing batters to play more freely after getting accustomed to the conditions. Bowlers often find it challenging to restrict the flow of runs on this pitch as the match unfolds.

AFG vs IRE, 1st ODI: Probable Playing XIs

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Noor Ahmad, Qais Ahmad, Fareed Malik, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Ireland: Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie (c), Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, George Dockrell, Curtis Campher, Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, Craig Young, Graham Hume, Barry McCarthy

AFG vs IRE, 1st ODI: Fantoss Fantasy Tips

AFG vs IRE, 1st ODI: Winner Prediction

Afghanistan may have lost the Test, but our money is on them in these ODIs. They came very close to qualifying through to the semis in the world cup, and this is a format where they bring up their A-game. 

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AFG vs IRE: 1st ODI Fantasy Predictions, Tips, Teams, Pitch Report & Top Picks

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