Introduction:
The cricketing world awaits an exciting clash as Afghanistan takes on Ireland in the first ODI of a three-match series in Sharjah. The teams are set to battle it out on March 7, with Afghanistan aiming to bounce back after a recent test defeat. In this article, we delve into the team dynamics, key player analyses, pitch conditions, recent venue records, and offer predictions for the upcoming encounter.
Match Details |
|
Date and Time |
March 7, 2024, 5:00 PM IST |
Venue |
Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah |
Format |
One Day International (ODI) |
Series |
Afghanistan vs Ireland, 1st ODI (Three-match series) |
Recent Test Result |
Ireland won by six wickets (Only Test) |
Live:
You can catch live updates on Fancode website and Eurosport Network
Pitch Conditions:
Parameter |
Details |
Type: |
Hard, Batting-friendly |
Average 1st Inns Score: |
223 |
Average 2nd Inns Score: |
191 |
Highest Total: |
364/7 (Pakistan vs New Zealand) |
Lowest Total: |
54/10 (India vs Sri Lanka) |
Highest Score Chased: |
285/2 (Australia vs Pakistan) |
Lowest Score Defended: |
138/9 (Pakistan Women vs Sri Lanka Women) |
Pitch Analysis:
Type and Nature: The pitch at Sharjah Cricket Stadium is known to be hard, favoring batsmen with good bounce and carry. Bowlers may find assistance early on, but conditions tend to ease for batting as the match progresses.
Average Scores: Historically, the average first innings score at this venue is over 220, indicating that it generally favors the batsmen. However, bowlers who can adapt to the conditions may find success.
Chasing Advantage: The pitch tends to become more batting-friendly in the second innings, and teams might prefer to chase due to the impact of dew in the evening.
Venue Experience: Sharjah Cricket Stadium has hosted over 250 ODIs and has been a regular venue for high-profile matches, especially India vs Pakistan encounters in the 90s.
Playing11:
Afghanistan Playing XI |
Ireland Playing XI |
1. Hasmatullah Shahid (c) |
1. Paul Stirling (c) |
2. Rahmaullah Gurbaz (wk) |
2. Andrew Balbirnie |
3. Azmatullah Omarzai |
3. Harry Tector |
4. Mohammad Nabi |
4. Mark Adair |
5. Azmatullah Omarzai |
5. Barry McCarthy |
6. Bilal Sami (uncapped) |
6. George Dockrell |
7. Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar (uncapped) |
7. Lorcan Tucker (wk) |
8. Nangyal Kharoti (uncapped) |
8. Simi Singh |
9. Fazalhaq Farooqi |
9. Andy McBrine |
10. Noor Ahmad |
10. Craig Young |
11. Mujeeb Ur Rahman (ruled out) |
11. Joshua Little |
Key Player:
Afghanistan:
Hasmatullah Shahid (c): The captain’s leadership and batting prowess will set the tone for Afghanistan. His strategic decisions will be crucial in the absence of key bowlers.
Rahmaullah Gurbaz (wk): The wicketkeeper-batsman has been in good form, and his explosive batting at the top order can provide Afghanistan with a solid start.
Mohammad Nabi: A seasoned all-rounder, Nabi’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a key asset for Afghanistan. His experience will be invaluable in the middle order.
Fazalhaq Farooqi: With Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman unavailable, Farooqi’s role as a key bowler becomes even more significant. His pace and variations will be crucial in restricting Ireland.
Afghanistan:
- Most Runs: Rahmaullah Gurbaz / Ibrahim Zadran
- Most Wickets: Noor Ahmad / Fazalhaq Farooqi
Ireland:
Paul Stirling (c): As the captain and one of the most experienced batters, Stirling’s performance will be pivotal. His aggressive batting style can provide Ireland with the impetus they need.
Andrew Balbirnie: A consistent performer, Balbirnie’s stability in the batting lineup is crucial for Ireland. His ability to anchor the innings will be key against Afghanistan’s bowling attack.
Mark Adair: A leading fast bowler for Ireland, Adair’s pace and ability to pick up crucial wickets make him a key player. His performance with the new ball can set the tone for Ireland.
George Dockrell: As a reliable spinner, Dockrell’s role in controlling the middle overs and taking key wickets will be crucial for Ireland’s success.
Ireland:
- Most Runs: Paul Stirling / Harry Tector
- Most Wickets: George Dockrell / Mark Adair
Captain and Vice-Captain Choices for AFG vs IRE 1st ODI:
Afghanistan:
Captain Choice: Rahmaullah Gurbaz
Gurbaz, the wicketkeeper-batsman, has shown explosive form at the top order. His ability to score quickly and provide a solid start makes him a strong captaincy choice.
Vice-Captain Choice: Hasmatullah Shahid
Captain Shahid’s leadership role, combined with his batting skills, makes him a reliable vice-captaincy option. He will look to lead from the front and contribute significantly.
Ireland:
Captain Choice: Paul Stirling
Stirling, the captain and experienced opener, is known for his aggressive batting style. If he gets going, he can accumulate a substantial number of runs and provide a solid foundation for Ireland.
Vice-Captain Choice: Mark Adair
Adair, the pace spearhead for Ireland, has the ability to take early wickets and provide breakthroughs. His contributions with the ball can fetch crucial fantasy points.
Dream11 Prediction Team:
- Rahmaullah Gurbaz (C) – Afghanistan (WK)
- Paul Stirling (VC) – Ireland (C)
- Azmatullah Omarzai – Afghanistan
- Andrew Balbirnie – Ireland
- Mohammad Nabi – Afghanistan
- Fazalhaq Farooqi – Afghanistan
- George Dockrell – Ireland
- Mark Adair – Ireland
- Hasmatullah Shahid – Afghanistan (Captain)
- Barry McCarthy – Ireland
- Noor Ahmad – Afghanistan
Conclusion:
Afghanistan, eager for redemption after a test loss, holds the upper hand with a dominant track record against Ireland. The familiarity with Sharjah’s conditions further strengthens their position. Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest as Afghanistan seeks to extend their ODI supremacy over Ireland.
ISL 🆚 KAR Match Prediction Dream11 Team
You must be logged in to post a comment Login