NEW DELHI: Afghanistan has clinched direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup, securing their spot with a hard-fought three-wicket victory over Ireland in the third One-Day International at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast on Monday. This crucial win not only sealed their World Cup berth but also gave Afghanistan an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-match series, with the opening fixture having been washed out and the second ODI won convincingly by 92 runs.
The match saw Afghanistan’s bowlers efficiently restrict Ireland to a total of 206 runs in 46.3 overs. In response, Afghanistan successfully chased down the target in 44.5 overs, showcasing a blend of strategic bowling and a composed finish, particularly from their star all-rounder, Rashid Khan.
Rashid, Ahmadzai Guide Afghanistan to Victory
Afghanistan’s chase initially appeared to be under control, reaching a comfortable 97 for two. However, a sudden collapse saw them lose five quick wickets for just 79 runs, plummeting to a precarious 176 for seven. It was at this critical juncture that Rashid Khan, the talismanic leg-spinner, stepped up to deliver a captain’s knock.
Remaining unbeaten on 37 runs off 43 deliveries, an innings punctuated by four well-timed boundaries, Rashid demonstrated exceptional composure under pressure. He was ably supported by Yamin Ahmadzai, who stood firm with an unbeaten four runs off 26 balls. Together, the pair meticulously navigated the remaining overs, ensuring Afghanistan crossed the finish line without further drama. Rashid Khan’s match-winning performance earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.
Afghanistan Secures Coveted World Cup Spot
This momentous victory means Afghanistan, currently ranked No. 8 in ODIs, has officially secured direct qualification for the 2027 World Cup. The prestigious tournament is slated to be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. This will mark Afghanistan’s fourth appearance in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, a testament to their consistent rise in international cricket.
Captain Rahmat Shah Praises Bowling Unit
Following the triumph, Afghanistan captain Rahmat Shah expressed his gratitude and lauded his bowling unit for their disciplined performance. “Thank you. It was a low-scoring match, always tough. Finally, we won the match,” Shah remarked, acknowledging the challenging nature of the contest.
When asked about the bowling effort, Shah elaborated, “Yeah, I give them the plans according to the field, according to the situation, and they read very well, especially Yamin Ahmadzai bowled really well, Rashid and Ghanzafar, they bowled really well too. They bowled according to the field, and especially they assessed the conditions early.” His praise highlighted the adaptability and execution shown by his bowlers.
Shah also conceded that the low-scoring target made their chase particularly demanding. “Of course, yes, because always a low-scoring match is very tough, and finally we won the match.” He further pinpointed Ireland’s resilient ninth-wicket partnership as an area for improvement, vowing that Afghanistan would aim to break such stands earlier in future encounters. “I think the ninth-wicket partnership, Ireland did very well. Inshallah, we try to break these partnerships early if we are in a good situation on that time. Inshallah, we will try our best.”
