Rashid Khan delivered a stunning performance, taking six wickets to lead Afghanistan to a 92-run victory over Ireland in the second One-Day International (ODI) of the series.
The win gives Afghanistan a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after the first ODI was washed out due to rain.
Played on Friday at Bready Cricket Club in Magheramason, Northern Ireland, Ireland lost seven wickets for just 63 runs and were bowled out for 207 while chasing a target of 300.
Rashid Khan, one of the finest leg-spinners of his generation, claimed four of the last seven wickets, finishing with impressive figures of 6-34 – the third time he has taken six wickets in an ODI. His best bowling in this format remains 7-18 against the West Indies in 2017.
Rashid struck twice early, first having Andy Balbirnie caught behind to end a promising 72-run partnership with Cade Carmichael. In his next over, he also had Harry Tector caught behind.
The match was reduced to 47 overs per side due to rain. Ireland needed 156 runs from 137 balls with seven wickets in hand when the collapse truly began with the bizarre dismissal of Lorcan Tucker. Mohammed Saleem appealed for lbw against Tucker but was turned down. However, as Tucker attempted a run, Sediqullah Atal at point ran in and effected a direct-hit run out.
Earlier, opener Ibrahim Zadran scored 84 – the highest score for Afghanistan in their total of 299-8.
The series continues in Belfast next Monday.
