Sport
Only two days to go before Afghanistan and Ireland begin ODI series
The training camp has focused on batting, bowling and fielding drills as the team adapts to conditions similar to those it will encounter during the series.
With just two days remaining before the first ball is bowled, Afghanistan is putting the finishing touches on its preparations for a five-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Ireland, beginning on August 5.
The Afghanistan squad has been training in Birmingham, England, ahead of the tour and is expected to travel to Ireland before the opening match.
The training camp has focused on batting, bowling and fielding drills as the team adapts to conditions similar to those it will encounter during the series.
The series marks Afghanistan’s return to international action and provides another important test for a side that has continued to establish itself among the leading teams in the 50-over format.
For Ireland, the series signals a long-awaited return to ODI cricket after a 15-month break. The hosts will be captained by Paul Stirling, whose experience will be central as Ireland looks to make the most of home conditions while assessing its squad ahead of a busy international schedule.
Afghanistan will be led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, with a squad featuring experienced players including Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan and Azmatullah Omarzai. The series will also provide an opportunity for several younger players to gain valuable international experience.
The opening two ODIs will be played at Bready Cricket Club Ground before the series moves to Stormont in Belfast for the remaining three matches.
Afghanistan and Ireland have built a competitive rivalry over the years, with both teams producing several memorable contests. The five-match series is expected to offer another closely fought battle as both sides seek to build momentum in the 50-over format.
The series schedule is:
August 5 – First ODI, Bready
August 7 – Second ODI, Bready
August 10 – Third ODI, Belfast
August 12 – Fourth ODI, Belfast
August 15 – Fifth ODI, Belfast
All five matches will be broadcast live and exclusively on Ariana Television.