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In the inaugural ODI of the three-match series between Afghanistan and Ireland, Afghan players showcased remarkable performances, propelling their team to a resounding victory over the Irish counterparts. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, with a sensational century, rightfully earned the title of ‘Player of the Match.’ Yet, it was another Afghan talent who seized the spotlight, delivering an extraordinary bowling display that saw him claim four wickets.
Farooqi’s standout moment included dismantling one of Ireland’s batters with a searing yorker, leaving fans in awe of his skill and precision.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s century sets the stage
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan demonstrated their formidable batting prowess, posting an imposing total of 310/5 in their allotted 50 overs. The highlight of their innings was Gurbaz’s scintillating knock of 121 runs off 117 balls, adorned with eight fours and six sixes. Contributions from Ibrahim Zadran (60 runs) and Hashmatullah Shahidi (50 runs off 33 balls) further solidified Afghanistan’s position, setting a challenging target for Ireland.
Ireland’s spirited chase in vain
Facing a daunting target of 311 runs, Ireland fought valiantly in their pursuit. Harry Tector‘s remarkable innings of 138 runs off 147 balls, featuring nine fours and three sixes, kept Ireland in the hunt. Lorcan Tucker‘s impressive 85 off 76 balls added to the excitement. However, Afghanistan’s bowling unit, led by Farooqi (4 wickets) and Azmatullah Omarzai (2 wickets), ultimately proved too much for the Irish side.
Also READ: Fans react as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill smash centuries in Dharamsala Test
Fazalhaq Farooqi’s yorker steals the limelight
Farooqi’s standout moment came in the 46th over when he unleashed a series of yorkers against Ireland’s Mark Adair. The last ball of the over saw Farooqi keeping the consistency with a searing yorker that left Adair with no answer. The ball crashed into the stumps from beneath the bat, and Farooqi’s jubilant celebration, including a mid-air kick, showcased the excitement and intensity of the moment.
Here’s the video:
A @fazalfarooqi10 special! ⚡#AfghanAtalan | #AFGvIRE2024 pic.twitter.com/aaw8s3iYzy
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) March 7, 2024
Afghanistan emerges victorious
With Farooqi’s heroics, Afghanistan successfully defended their total, securing victory by a margin of 35 runs and they now are 1-0 up against the Irish team in the three-match leg.
As the series progresses, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the 2nd ODI scheduled to unfold at the same Sharjah Cricket Stadium which hosted the opening ecnounter.
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