• Match: Afghanistan v Ireland, 1st ODI Match, Afghanistan v Ireland in UAE, 2024
• Date and Time: March 07, 11:30 am GMT / 05:00 pm IST / 03:30 pm local
• Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah

Afghanistan is poised to make a strong comeback against Ireland following their 3-0 defeat to Sri Lanka in the previous series. Despite the setback against Sri Lanka, Afghanistan showcased promising performances in the ODI World Cup. While they couldn’t replicate their success against Sri Lanka, Afghanistan remained competitive in several matches, showing glimpses of their potential to turn the tide in their favor.

Meanwhile, Ireland enters the series fresh off a victory over Zimbabwe in Zimbabwe. However, facing Afghanistan in their home conditions poses a different challenge altogether. Afghanistan excels in low and slow conditions, making them formidable opponents. Although Ireland may be considered underdogs, they can take confidence from their previous victory over Afghanistan in the one-off Test.

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Akhil, Noor Ahmad, Qais Ahmad, Fareed Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.

Ireland: Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, Craig Young, Graham Hume, Theo van Woerkom/Barry McCarthy.

Who will win the toss? – Afghanistan
Who will win? – Afghanistan

Captain: Azmatullah Omarzai
Vice-Captain: Mohammad Nabi

Lorcan Tucker, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Paul Stirling, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Andrew Balbirnie, Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Bowlers: Mark Adair, Zahir Khan, Fazal Haq Farooqi.

The potential presence of dew in the evening might sway the captains’ decision to opt for bowling first in the match.

The pitch is anticipated to be favorable for batting, although spinners may encounter some turn and bounce. Nevertheless, it shouldn’t present a considerable challenge for batters, who should be able to adapt to the conditions.

The weather forecast suggests clear skies with temperatures fluctuating between 24 and 18 degrees Celsius throughout the day. There is no anticipated threat of rain, ensuring optimal conditions for the match.