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Ireland vs Afghanistan, 1st T20I Commentary, Live Updates

IRE vs AFG, 2022 - T20 Live Commentary

Ireland vs Afghanistan Scorecard
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Match Ended   
171/3 (19.5/20)
168/7 (20.0/20)
Ireland beat Afghanistan by 7 wickets
That's it then from this game. The series has only begun but it is Ireland who have taken a 1-0 lead over Afghanistan in the five-match T20I series. The visitors will look to bounce back and level the series or else they will be left with too much to do. The hosts though will look to increase their lead and get one step closer to a series win. The 2nd T20I will be played on the 11th of August and it will begin at 8 pm IST (2.30 pm GMT). Our build-up though will begin much sooner. Till then, take care and goodbye!
The captain of Afghanistan, Mohammad Nabi says that they haven't played a game together for more than a month. Adds that it was a good game and they were short 15-20 runs but Ireland played really well. Says that Usman Ghani played really well and he has been doing really well domestically. Mentions that they have some work to do with their lines and lengths in the Powerplay and towards the end.
Andy Balbirnie (51 runs off 38 balls), the Irish skipper is the PLAYER OF THE MATCH for his brilliant innings. He says that to get a win is great and they have played well against top teams and it is good to get over the finish line finally. He says that he worked hard and tried to play his game. He ends by saying it was good to get some runs and he will look to continue this form. Balbirnie then comes back on to chat as the skipper of the winning side and says that they are absolutely thrilled by the victory. He says that they bowled pretty well and the batters also did well and chased down the target with wickets in hand. He adds that it is important to use the Powerplay and they did that against a very good bowling attack. He says that everyone sticked to their roles and performed them perfectly.
The Presentation ceremony...
Earlier in the day, after electing to bat, Afghanistan put up a decent score on the board courtesy Usman Ghani at the top and Ibrahim Zadran down the order. That though was chased down as Ireland put in a combined batting effort.
Afghanistan will be disappointed. Their bowling is what they thrive on and that is what let them down. The 5th bowler is what proved to be expensive for them. The likes of Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai went for runs. Naveen-ul-Haq too had a day to forget even after starting off with a maiden. One wonders, why was Mujeeb Ur Rahman not given his full quota. That was quite surprising.
The openers provided the start for Ireland, they added 50 and that too in the Powerplay itself. However, the stand that took away the game from the visitors was the one between Lorcan Tucker and Andy Balbirnie! Both played the sweep shot really well and managed to score a boundary almost every over. They added over 60 runs with both scoring fifties. That turned the tide in the favor of the hosts completely. Afghanistan did make a comeback though by bowling a few tight overs but in the end, it was Harry Tector and George Dockrell who played brilliantly and took their side over the line.
What a win! What a win for Ireland! They have ended their losing streak and in some style! Trust me, this was not an easy target to chase. We felt that Afghanistan got 15 runs more but Ireland have gunned it down really well.
End Of The Over 19.5 : 171/3
15 Runs
  • 219.1
  • 419.2
  • 119.3
  • 419.4
  • 419.5
G. Dockrell
10 (5)
H. Tector
25 (15)
Naveen
3.5-1-39-1
19.5
4
Naveen-ul-Haq To George Dockrell
FOUR! That's it, George Dockrell finishes things off in style and Ireland have won the game with just one ball remaining! Banged in short and over middle, Dockrell gets on top of the bounce and pulls it well in front of mid-wicket to find the fence. Ireland win by 7 wickets!
19.4
4
Naveen-ul-Haq To George Dockrell
FOUR! Oh, no! It is a brilliant effort in the deep but it has gone for a boundary. Another slower delivery, fuller and on off. George Dockrell punches it back past the bowler and the fielder from long on runs to his left to dive it and cut it off. The momentum though was such that the fielder ended up parrying the ball into the ropes. Just 2 needed now off 2 deliveries.
19.3
1
Naveen-ul-Haq To Harry Tector
What a cracking delivery from Naveen-ul-Haq! Nails the toe-crushing yorker and Tector somehow manages to get a bat on it. The ball rolls towards square leg as the batters sneak in a single.
19.2
4
Naveen-ul-Haq To Harry Tector
FOUR! The game keeps on swinging like a pendulum. Slower ball, on a length and outside off. Harry Tector picks it up and holds his shape before crunching it over extra cover for a boundary. 7 needed now off 4 balls.
Naveen-ul-Haq seems to be struggling a bit. On the other side, Harry Tector is also seen in some discomfort. The physios are in to check and provide the required treatment. Both of them looks fine now and we are ready to continue.
19.1
2
Naveen-ul-Haq To Harry Tector
Well bowled and well ran in the end as well. This is on a hard length and angling into the body. Harry Tector mistimes the pull shot in front of mid-wicket and races back for two. Tector dives in and seems to have hurt himself a bit here.
Naveen-ul-Haq will bowl the last over. It is a nail biting finish. Can he defend 12 runs?
End Of The Over 19 : 156/3
10 Runs
  • 118.1
  • 618.2
  • 118.3
  • 018.4
  • 118.5
  • 118.6
H. Tector
18 (12)
G. Dockrell
2 (3)
F. Farooqi
4-0-32-0
18.6
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Harry Tector
A brilliant comeback in the over from Fazalhaq Farooqi! It's the yorker again, outside off and Harry Tector heaves it off the inner half of the bat towards wide long on for a single. 13 needed now off the final 6 deliveries.
18.5
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To George Dockrell
Pitches it up now, a bit in the slot and on off stump, Dockrell drills it down to long off for one. Dockrell will be disappointed that he didn't do more with that one.
18.4
0
Fazalhaq Farooqi To George Dockrell
Excellent from Farooqi! Nails the wide yorker and George Dockrell gets beaten on the inside edge as he looks to squeeze it out.
18.3
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Harry Tector
Pce on this time, full and wide, Tector drives it firmly towards deep cover for just a single.
18.2
6
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Harry Tector
SIX! Probably a game-changing blow from Harry Tector! This is another slower ball, dug into the pitch and over middle and leg. Tector picks it up and pulls it a long way in front of mid-wicket for a huge hit. The ball is lost as well. 16 needed now off 10 balls.
18.1
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To George Dockrell
Starts off with a length ball, slower in pace and around off. Dockrell plays it on the up and towards long off for a single.
George Dockrell is the next man in.
End Of The Over 18 : 146/3
10 Runs
  • 417.1
  • 117.2
  • 217.3
  • 217.4
  • 117.5
  • W 17.6
L. Tucker
50 (32)
H. Tector
10 (9)
Naveen
3-1-24-1
17.6
W
Naveen-ul-Haq To Lorcan Tucker OUT!
OUT! TAKEN! Fifty and out for Lorcan Tucker. This is full and around off, in the slot as well, Lorcan Tucker moves across and slog-sweeps it towards the deep mid wicket fence. As it is the longer side, the ball goes high in the air but does not go the distance. Rashid Khan there settles under it and takes a nice catch. 23 runs needed in 12 balls now. We are in for a thrilling finish.
17.5
1
Naveen-ul-Haq To Harry Tector
A low full toss and on middle, Harry Tector moves across and tucks it straight to short fine leg for one. He is dissappointed with himself as it was there to be put away.
17.4
2
Naveen-ul-Haq To Harry Tector
Two more. This is in the blockhole and on middle and leg, Harry Tector digs it out well through mid-wicket and adds two more to the total.
17.3
2
Naveen-ul-Haq To Harry Tector
Good running there. This is on a hard length and on leg, slower too, Harry Tector makes room and whips it of his bottom edge toward deep mid-wicket for a brace.
17.2
1
Naveen-ul-Haq To Lorcan Tucker
Fifty for Lorcan Tucker. This has been a great innigs under pressure. This is a bit full and on off, Lorcan Tucker moves across and sweeps it towards short fine leg for a single.
17.1
4
Naveen-ul-Haq To Lorcan Tucker
FOUR! DEFT TOUCH! This is on a length and outside off, Lorcan Tucker opens the face of his bat and guides it just past the keeper and towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Another change in the bowling as Naveen-ul-Haq comes on to bowl.
End Of The Over 17 : 136/2
8 Runs
  • 216.1
  • 116.2
  • 116.3
  • 1 LB 16.4
  • 216.5
  • 116.6
L. Tucker
45 (29)
H. Tector
5 (6)
F. Farooqi
3-0-22-0
16.6
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Lorcan Tucker
Ends the over brilliantly! 33 needed in 18! A yorker outside off, it is jammed out towards cover for one.
16.5
2
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Lorcan Tucker
Two! A low full toss outside off, this is jammed through covers for two.
16.4
lb
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Harry Tector
Harry Tector looks to be innovative! Moves right across, this is a slower one outside off. Tector swings again but misses. It hits the body and rolls on the off side. A leg bye taken.
16.3
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Lorcan Tucker
Just another one! Outstanding. A yorker outside off, it is jammed towards cover for one.
16.2
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Harry Tector
Just the one this time! Full and on off, a slower one. It is hit straight to long off for one.
16.1
2
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Harry Tector
Two! 39 needed in 23. Length and on off, this is hit down to long off for two.
Fazalhaq Farooqi (2-0-15-0) is back on.
End Of The Over 16 : 128/2
4 Runs
  • 015.1
  • 115.2
  • 215.3
  • 1 WD 15.4
  • 015.4
  • 015.5
  • 015.6
L. Tucker
41 (26)
H. Tector
2 (3)
R. Khan
4-0-25-0
15.6
0
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
BEATEN! This is quicker and flatter, around off, Lorcan Tucker looks to cut it away but misses.
15.5
0
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
Rashid pushes this wider and Tucker can only manage to tap it towards point.
15.4
0
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
On the pads again, this is just nudged away towards square leg.
15.4
wd
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
WIDE! This is spilled down the leg side, Tucker misses the sweep and a wide is called.
15.3
2
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
Good running! This is quicker and flatter, turning into the pads, Lorcan Tucker goes back in his crease and works it through mid-wicket for a couple of runs.
15.2
1
Rashid Khan To Harry Tector
Tossed up a bit, around off and it is the googly. Tector lofts it down towards long off for a single.
15.1
0
Rashid Khan To Harry Tector
A flatter delivery, around off, Harry Tector gets squared out and edges it out towards cover-point.
Rashid Khan is back on for his final over.
End Of The Over 15 : 124/2
3 Runs
  • 114.1
  • 114.2
  • 014.3
  • 014.4
  • W 14.5
  • 114.6
H. Tector
1 (1)
L. Tucker
39 (22)
Ur Rahman
3-0-22-1
14.6
1
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Harry Tector
A single to end a brilliant over from Mujeeb! He has got his team back in the game! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Harry Tector walks in at number 4 for Ireland.
14.5
W
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie OUT!
OUT! TAKEN! There is the breakthrough Afghanistan were so desperate for! The skipper, Andy Balbirnie has to depart and the stand which was taking the game away has been broken. 46 needed in 31. This is on middle, Andy Balbirnie brings out the slog sweep, it is to the longer side and the fielder in the deep takes a well-judged catch.
14.4
0
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Yet another dot! That was stopped well! Fuller and on off, this is driven hard but to covers.
14.3
0
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Tosses it up outside off, Andy Balbirnie looks to sweep but it goes off the toe-end towards short third man.
14.2
1
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Lorcan Tucker
A yorker outside off, it is jammed out towards cover for one.
14.1
1
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Shorter and outside off, this is played through point for one.
End Of The Over 14 : 121/1
12 Runs
  • 413.1
  • 413.2
  • 113.3
  • 213.4
  • 013.5
  • 113.6
A. Balbirnie
50 (34)
L. Tucker
38 (21)
M. Nabi
3-0-27-1
13.6
1
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
On middle, this is flicked through mid-wicket for one. Fifty for Andy Balbirnie, a solid knock but he would love to take his side over the line.
13.5
0
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
More dots needed! On middle, this is worked towards the right of the bowler.
13.4
2
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
Two more! Shorter and outside off, this is cut through point for two.
13.3
1
Mohammad Nabi To Lorcan Tucker
On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
13.2
4
Mohammad Nabi To Lorcan Tucker
FOUR! Make that two in a row now! On middle, this is swept behind square on the leg side for another boundary. Difficult to see Afghanistan get back into this game now.
13.1
4
Mohammad Nabi To Lorcan Tucker
FOUR! A boundary to begin the over and Ireland marching along nicely! On middle, this is hit down the ground, straight and into the fence.
Mohammad Nabi (2-0-15-1) brings himself back on.
End Of The Over 13 : 109/1
9 Runs
  • 112.1
  • 112.2
  • 112.3
  • 412.4
  • 112.5
  • 112.6
L. Tucker
29 (18)
A. Balbirnie
47 (31)
R. Khan
3-0-21-0
12.6
1
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
Another run to end! The runs continue to flow for Afghanistan! On middle, this is swept towards deep square leg for one.
12.5
1
Rashid Khan To Andy Balbirnie
A single now as this is pushed towards cover. Good sensible batting!
12.4
4
Rashid Khan To Andy Balbirnie
FOUR! Nice and fine! Yet another boundary in this over! On the pads, Andy Balbirnie plays it behind square on the leg side for a boundary.
12.3
1
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one more.
12.2
1
Rashid Khan To Andy Balbirnie
On middle, this is nudged through the leg side for another single.
12.1
1
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
Just the one! A full toss on middle, this is played through square leg for one.
Rashid Khan is back into the attack. Can he be the man to provide the breakhtrough for Afghanistan?
End Of The Over 12 : 100/1
8 Runs
  • 011.1
  • 211.2
  • 111.3
  • 411.4
  • 111.5
  • 011.6
A. Balbirnie
41 (28)
L. Tucker
26 (15)
Ur Rahman
2-0-19-0
11.6
0
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Shorter and outside off, this is guided to point. A dot to end but a productive over for the hosts.
11.5
1
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Lorcan Tucker
On the pads, this is worked towards short fine leg for one.
11.4
4
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Lorcan Tucker
FOUR! A boundary is being found every over! On middle, the sweep is out, it is hit towards deep squre leg for a boundary. Afghainstan under huge pressure now.
11.3
1
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
11.2
2
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Misfield and two more! Shorter and outside off, Andy Balbirnie cuts it through point. The fielder in the deep fumbles, two taken.
11.1
0
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Shorter and around off, this is guided to point.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman is brought back into the attack.
End Of The Over 11 : 92/1
12 Runs
  • 010.1
  • 110.2
  • 110.3
  • 410.4
  • 010.5
  • 610.6
L. Tucker
21 (13)
A. Balbirnie
38 (24)
A. Omarzai
2-0-25-0
10.6
6
Azmatullah Omarzai To Lorcan Tucker
SIX! Bang! The last ball spoils the over completely! This is a full toss on middle, it is heaved over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie. Ireland's game to lose now. 77 in 54.
10.5
0
Azmatullah Omarzai To Lorcan Tucker
A slower one, well outside off, Tucker slashes at it but misses.
10.4
4
Azmatullah Omarzai To Lorcan Tucker
FOUR! Really clever from Tucker! He moves right across, this is on a length and outside off, he manages to paddle it over short fine leg for a boundary.
10.3
1
Azmatullah Omarzai To Andy Balbirnie
Short and wide outside off, bowling to his field, this is cut to deep point for one.
10.2
1
Azmatullah Omarzai To Lorcan Tucker
Tucker steps out and this is bowled wide outside off, it is slapped through covers for one.
10.1
0
Azmatullah Omarzai To Lorcan Tucker
A dot to begin after the break! Afhganistan need more dots to build pressure! On middle, this is played back to the bowler.
Drinks! This has been a really good session for Ireland. Paul Stirling and Andy Balbirnie both scored at a good rate but Stirling got out cheaply. But that did not effect Balbirnie as he looks in good touch. Afghanistan needs a wicket now to get back into this game. Let's see how things pans out. Also, Azmatullah Omarzai is back into the attack for Afghanistan.
End Of The Over 10 : 80/1
8 Runs
  • 09.1
  • 29.2
  • 49.3
  • 09.4
  • 19.5
  • 19.6
L. Tucker
10 (8)
A. Balbirnie
37 (23)
M. Nabi
2-0-15-1
9.6
1
Mohammad Nabi To Lorcan Tucker
Goes full again and on off, Lorcan Tucker flicks it to wide of long on for one and keeps the strike.
9.5
1
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
Tossed up full and on middle, Andy Balbirnie sweeps it again towards deep mid wicket for one.
9.4
0
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
Quicker one and on middle, skids through, Andy Balbirnie works it to mid-wicket.
9.3
4
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
FOUR! Good shot! This is flighted and around off, full too, Andy Balbirnie goes inside out and lofts it over extra cover and picks up a boundary.
9.2
2
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
Floated full  and on off, Andy Balbirnie moves across and sweeps it wide of deep mid-wicekt for a brace.
9.1
0
Mohammad Nabi To Andy Balbirnie
BEATEN! This is nicely tossed up and on off, Andy Balbirnie makes room to cut at it but gets beaten on the outside edge.
End Of The Over 9 : 72/1
8 Runs
  • 18.1
  • 18.2
  • 48.3
  • 18.4
  • 18.5
  • 08.6
L. Tucker
9 (7)
A. Balbirnie
30 (18)
R. Khan
2-0-12-0
8.6
0
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
Floated and on middle, Lorcan Tucker knocks it to the right of the bowler.
8.5
1
Rashid Khan To Andy Balbirnie
A googly now, on middle, Andy Balbirnie drives it to deep cover for one.
8.4
1
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
Darts this one full and on leg, Lorcan Tucker flicks it through mid-wicket for a single.
8.3
4
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
FOUR! Nice shot! This is tossed up full and down the leg, Lorcan Tucker goes down and sweeps it fine towards the fine leg fence for a boundary.
8.2
1
Rashid Khan To Andy Balbirnie
Pushed through quicker, full and outside off, Andy Balbirnie pushes it towards deep point for a single.
8.1
1
Rashid Khan To Lorcan Tucker
Floated and around, a bit short, Lorcan Tucker tucks it through mid-wicket for one.
End Of The Over 8 : 64/1
7 Runs
  • 07.1
  • 47.2
  • W 7.3
  • 27.4
  • 07.5
  • 17.6
L. Tucker
3 (3)
A. Balbirnie
28 (16)
M. Nabi
1-0-7-1
7.6
1
Mohammad Nabi To Lorcan Tucker
Fuller and darted onto the pads, Lorcan Tucker sweeps it away to deep backward square leg for a single.
7.5
0
Mohammad Nabi To Lorcan Tucker
Full and wide, driven towards extra cover where the fielder makes a good stop.
7.4
2
Mohammad Nabi To Lorcan Tucker
Just short! This is quicker and fuller, around off, Tucker looks to play it leg side but gets a leading edge. The ball just evades the diving cover-point fielder and the batters get back for two.
7.3
W
Mohammad Nabi To Paul Stirling OUT!
OUT! TAKEN! What an absolute brilliant catch by Fazalhaq Farooqi! Paul Stirling will be kicking himself, it was there to be hit but he holes out. This is shorter from Mohammad Nabi and bowled quite a bit wider as well. Stirling rocks back and looks to play it aerially. Stirling ends up slicing it a bit and the ball goes high towards the cover fence. It seems to be just sailing over but Fazalhaq Farooqi stetches his hands over his shoulders and grabs it with his right hand, keeping his balance in the process. Also, Lorcan Tucker walks out to bat now.
7.2
4
Mohammad Nabi To Paul Stirling
FOUR! Just past the man! This is tossed up around off, Paul Stirling pre-meditates the reverse sweep and hits it flat, past the diving fielder at short third man for a boundary.
7.1
0
Mohammad Nabi To Paul Stirling
Loopy delivery to start off with from Nabi, full and on off. Paul Stirling looks to flick it away but gets a leading edge towards short cover.
Mohammad Nabi, the skipper brings himself into the attack now.
End Of The Over 7 : 57/0
4 Runs
  • 16.1
  • 06.2
  • 16.3
  • 16.4
  • 06.5
  • 16.6
P. Stirling
27 (26)
A. Balbirnie
28 (16)
R. Khan
1-0-4-0
6.6
1
Rashid Khan To Paul Stirling
A bit fuller and fired in on leg stump, Paul Stirling drives it through wide mid on for a single. Tidy start from Rashid Khan, just the 4 singles off it.
6.5
0
Rashid Khan To Paul Stirling
Slows it up a touch and bowls it on off, Stirling just defends it out.
6.4
1
Rashid Khan To Andy Balbirnie
On the pads again and worked past square leg for a single by Balbirnie.
6.3
1
Rashid Khan To Paul Stirling
On the shorter side, on middle and leg, Stirling just nudges it through mid-wicket for a run.
6.2
0
Rashid Khan To Paul Stirling
Swing and a miss! Around off and it is the googly, Paul Stirling decides to get low and slog it away but he is beaten all ends up.
6.1
1
Rashid Khan To Andy Balbirnie
Starts off with a quicker delivery, full and wide and sliding on. Andy Balbirnie drives it nicely through covers and picks up a single.
Rashid Khan is now into the attack.
End Of The Over 6 : 53/0
14 Runs
  • 15.1
  • 1 WD 5.2
  • 65.2
  • 15.3
  • 45.4
  • 15.5
  • 05.6
P. Stirling
25 (22)
A. Balbirnie
26 (14)
Naveen
2-1-14-0
5.6
0
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
A dot to end the over then. This is on a length and on middle, Paul Stirling knocks it towards covers.
5.5
1
Naveen-ul-Haq To Andy Balbirnie
Full and around off, Andy Balbirnie drives it through cover-point and rotates the strike.
5.4
4
Naveen-ul-Haq To Andy Balbirnie
FOUR! Lovely shot! This is on a good length and on the pads, slower too, Andy Balbirnie helps it towards the fine leg fence for a boundary. That brings up the 50 partnership between these two.
5.3
1
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
Slower again, on a length and on leg, Paul Stirling nudges it through square leg for a single.
5.2
6
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
SIX! HUGE! A slower one, full and on middle, in the slot, Paul Stirling picks it up early and lofts it over the long on fence for a biggie.
5.2
wd
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
WIDE! Looses his line a bit as this is bowled full, but way down the leg side. Wided.
5.1
1
Naveen-ul-Haq To Andy Balbirnie
Fuller one and around off, Andy Balbirnie drives it towards deep point for one.
End Of The Over 5 : 39/0
13 Runs
  • 14.1
  • 44.2
  • 64.3
  • 04.4
  • 04.5
  • 24.6
P. Stirling
18 (19)
A. Balbirnie
20 (11)
A. Omarzai
1-0-13-0
4.6
2
Azmatullah Omarzai To Paul Stirling
Full again and outside off, Paul Stirling swats this one wide of long on for a brace. A good over for Ireland as they get 13 runs from it.
4.5
0
Azmatullah Omarzai To Paul Stirling
Goes full and on middle and off, dipping too, Paul Stirling looks to work it away to the leg side but gets a slight inside edge onto his pads.
4.4
0
Azmatullah Omarzai To Paul Stirling
Length delivery and around off, Paul Stirling stays there and tries to pull but mistimes it towards mid on.
The ball has disappeared out of the ground! The fourth umpire is on the pitch with a box full of spare balls. The umpires chose one and we are good to continue.
4.3
6
Azmatullah Omarzai To Paul Stirling
SIX! This time Paul Stirling connects well and sends it all the way. This is short and on middle, Paul Stirling picks up the length early and smokes it over the deep square leg fence for a biggie.
4.2
4
Azmatullah Omarzai To Paul Stirling
FOUR! A lucky one but Ireland will take it. This is full and on middle, in the slot, Paul Stirling lofts it just wide of the mid on fielder for a welcome boundary. The fielder there could have done better.
4.1
1
Azmatullah Omarzai To Andy Balbirnie
This is on a hard length and around off, Andy Balbirnie punches it towards cover-point for a single.
Azmatullah Omarzai to have a bowl now.
End Of The Over 4 : 26/0
0 Runs
  • 03.1
  • 03.2
  • 03.3
  • 03.4
  • 03.5
  • 03.6
P. Stirling
6 (14)
A. Balbirnie
19 (10)
Naveen
1-1-0-0
3.6
0
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
A maiden! Would you believe it? This is pitched up around off, Paul Stirling backs away yet again and only manges to loft it towards the man at extra cover. Top over from Naveen-ul-Haq and Ireland's fast start has become a bit stagnant.
3.5
0
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
Make that five dots on the trot! Length again, on off, Paul Stirling backs away looking to open up the off side but only manages to cut it straight towards point.
3.4
0
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
A fourth dot in a row now and this will be frustrating Paul Stirling. Fullish delivery, angling into the pads and a bit slower. Stirling flicks it uppishly towards mid-wicket.
3.3
0
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
Full and straight, Stirling pushes it back towards the bowler who has taken a blow on one of his fingers while making the stop. Naveen-ul-Haq seems fine though.
3.2
0
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
This is a bit fuller and wider, Paul Stirling tries to shuffle across and get low to slog it behind square but misses. The ball thuds into the pads and goes nowhere.
3.1
0
Naveen-ul-Haq To Paul Stirling
Starts off with a length ball, close to the off stump, Stirling just opens the face of the bat and guides it towards short third man. There is an easy single on offer but they don't take it.
Naveen-ul-Haq comes into the attack.
End Of The Over 3 : 26/0
12 Runs
  • 22.1
  • 42.2
  • 02.3
  • 12.4
  • 12.5
  • 42.6
A. Balbirnie
19 (10)
P. Stirling
6 (8)
F. Farooqi
2-0-15-0
2.6
4
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Andy Balbirnie
FOUR! Short and punished! This is around the hips, Andy Balbirnie just short-arm jabs it one bounce into the backward square leg fence. This is a strong start for Ireland so far.
2.5
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Paul Stirling
Length and on the pads, Paul Stirling just nudges it in front of square leg and races through for the single.
2.4
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Andy Balbirnie
Farooqi takes pace off the ball and serves it around off, Andy Balbirnie has a push at it and gets it to the left of the man at mid off for a quick run.
2.3
0
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Andy Balbirnie
Much better from Farooqi. This is on a good length and in that channel around off, Balbirnie plays inside the line of the ball.
2.2
4
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Andy Balbirnie
FOUR! Glorious from the Irish skipper. Full and outside off, Balbirnie crouches a bit and then rises up to drive it on the up and through extra cover for a boundary.
2.1
2
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Andy Balbirnie
Fullish delivery, on middle and leg, Andy Balbirnie flicks it off the inner half of the bat and behind square on the leg side for a couple of runs.
End Of The Over 2 : 14/0
11 Runs
  • 01.1
  • 61.2
  • 01.3
  • 11.4
  • 41.5
  • 01.6
P. Stirling
5 (7)
A. Balbirnie
8 (5)
Ur Rahman
1-0-11-0
1.6
0
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Paul Stirling
Flighted full and around middle, Paul Stirling knocks it back to the bowler. 11 runs from the over.
1.5
4
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Paul Stirling
EDGED AND FOUR! This is quicker and short on middle, Paul Stirling makes room and slashes hard at it. The ball goes of the outside edge past the keeper and into the third man fence for a boundary. This is turning out to be an expensive over.
1.4
1
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Tossed up full and on middle, Andy Balbirnie goes for the sweep again but this time finds the fielder at deep square leg. A single taken.
1.3
0
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Good comeback by Mujeeb. This is slower through the air and on off, Andy Balbirnie looks to cut at it but misses.
1.2
6
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
SIX! BANG! This is floated full and around off, Andy Balbirnie goes down and slog-sweeps it over the backward square fence for the first maximum of the innings.
1.1
0
Mujeeb Ur Rahman To Andy Balbirnie
Tossed up full and on middle, Andy Balbirnie blocks it out.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman to operate from the opposite end.
End Of The Over 1 : 3/0
3 Runs
  • 00.1
  • 10.2
  • 10.3
  • 00.4
  • 1 WD 0.5
  • 00.5
  • 00.6
P. Stirling
1 (5)
A. Balbirnie
1 (1)
F. Farooqi
1-0-3-0
0.6
0
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Paul Stirling
On a length and on off, Paul Stirling mistimes it back to the bowler.
0.5
0
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Paul Stirling
Length delivery and on middle, shaping in, Paul Stirling tries to work it to the leg side but misses and gets hit on the pads. There is an appeal for LBW but turned down.
0.5
wd
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Paul Stirling
WIDE! This is on a length and down the leg, Paul Stirling leaves it alone. Wided.
0.4
0
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Paul Stirling
Full again and on off, Paul Stirling knocks it back towards the bowler.
0.3
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Andy Balbirnie
Full and on middle, Andy Balbirnie tucks it wide of mid on for a single and gets off the mark.
0.2
1
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Paul Stirling
On a length and on middle and off, Paul Stirling pushes it with the outer half towards point for a single. Ireland ​​​​and Paul Stirling are underway.
0.1
0
Fazalhaq Farooqi To Paul Stirling
Starts with a full delivery and on off from over the wicket, Paul Stirling knocks it towards mid off.
Match Info
  • Venue Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont, Belfast
  • Weather Sunny
  • Toss Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat
  • Result Ireland beat Afghanistan by 7 wickets
  • Player of the Match Andy Balbirnie
  • Umpire Paul Reynolds (IRE), Roly Black (IRE) and No TV Umpire
  • Referee Graham McCrea (IRE)
Match Notes
  • Innings Break: Afghanistan 168/7 in 20.0 overs
  • Afghanistan 154/7 in 19.2 overs
  • Afghanistan 103/2 in 12.5 overs
  • U Ghani 4th T20I fifty: 51 runs in 35 balls (5x4) (2x6)
  • Afghanistan 53/1 in 6.2 overs
  • Mandatory Power play (1-6): Afghanistan 47/1
  • Ireland 153/3 in 18.2 overs
  • L Tucker 4th T20I fifty: 50 runs in 31 balls (6x4) (1x6)
  • A Balbirnie 7th T20I fifty: 50 runs in 34 balls (5x4) (1x6)
  • Ireland 100/1 in 11.5 overs
  • Mandatory Power play (1-6): Ireland 53/0
  • Ireland 52/0 in 5.4 overs
  • 1st wicket partnership: 52 off 34 balls between P Stirling (25) and A Balbirnie (25)
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Match Poll

Who will win the Match

Latest Form
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Worm
Player Runs Avg.
George Dockrell IRE 141 -
Lorcan Tucker IRE 126 25.20
Najibullah Zadran AFG 125 25.00
Andy Balbirnie IRE 122 24.40
Rahmanullah Gurbaz AFG 108 21.60
Player Wickets Eco.
Naveen-ul-Haq AFG 7 8.74
Mark Adair IRE 7 8.80
Josh Little IRE 7 7.00
Mujeeb Ur Rahman AFG 6 6.86
Gareth Delany IRE 6 7.17
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