Afghanistan secured qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup after surviving a tense battle against Ireland in Belfast, with Rashid Khan producing a decisive all round display.
Chasing 206, Afghanistan appeared comfortable before Ireland mounted a strong comeback through Gavin Hoey and Mark Adair. The visitors slipped to 176 for 7, giving the hosts genuine hope of turning the contest around.
Rashid, however, kept his composure and finished with a crucial 37 as Afghanistan completed the chase in the 45th over. He struck the winning runs with two off Harry Tector, confirming Afghanistan’s place at a fourth consecutive ODI World Cup.
Earlier, Rashid had already made a major impact with the ball, collecting 3 for 44. AM Ghazanfar also troubled Ireland’s batting order as the pair combined for figures of 6 for 73.
Ireland had been reduced to 128 for 8 before Jai Moondra and Hoey produced an impressive recovery. Their 76 run partnership for the ninth wicket gave the hosts a competitive total. Hoey led the scoring with 36, while Moondra contributed 31 in only his second ODI appearance. Ireland were eventually dismissed for 205 in the 47th over.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz gave Afghanistan an aggressive start in reply, reaching his eighth ODI half century before falling for 71. Hoey then changed the momentum with an excellent 4 for 34, removing several key batters during the middle overs.
Adair also applied pressure, while wickets continued to fall around Rashid. Yamin Ahmadzai provided valuable support with an unbeaten 4 from 26 deliveries.
Rashid remained patient throughout the closing stages and ensured Afghanistan crossed the finish line, delivering another memorable performance when his country needed him most.
