Afghanistan vs Ireland, 1st ODI: Match Prediction - Who will win today’s match between AFG vs IRE?

Afghanistan (AFG) is gearing up to face Ireland (IRE) in the three-match ODI series after facing a defeat in the landmark one-off Test. The first ODI is set to commence on Thursday, March 07, in Sharjah. Following a crushing defeat by six wickets in the one-off Test against Ireland earlier this month, the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side will aim to come back strong in the upcoming clash against the same opponent.

On the other hand, Ireland will be high on confidence after the victory. The Irish side is coming off a brilliant ODI series win in their last tour to Zimbabwe. They defeated the hosts by a 0-2 margin and will be looking to carry the same momentum against Afghanistan. 

Match Details

Pitch Report 

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah is known for its batting-friendly conditions, primarily due to its relatively short boundaries. This venue has witnessed high-scoring encounters, with the average first-inning score being 250 runs. If the captain wins the toss at this venue, they are likely to opt to bat first, aiming to post an imposing total on the board and put immense pressure on the opposition during their run-chase.

Also Check: AFG vs IRE Live Score, 1st ODI 

Head-to-Head Record

Probable Playing XI

Afghanistan:

Ibrahim Zadran, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah, Gulbadin Naib, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Naveed Zadran, Noor Ahmed, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Fazal Haq Farooqi.

Ireland:

Harry Tector, Andrew Balbirnie, Gareth Delany, Paul Stirling (c), Theo van Woerkom, Lorcan Tucker (wk) Curtis Campher, Mark Adair, Graham Hume, Craig Young, Andy McBrine.

Probable best batter of the match:

Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi could be the best batter in the match. He is one of the best middle-order batters in Afghanistan cricket, and he was in great form in the one-off Test. He will be eager to sustain his impressive form in the upcoming match. He can control the innings and also maintain the run-rate.

Probable best bowler of the match:

Mark Adair could be the best bowler in the match. The medium pacer can provide crucial breakthroughs to his team. Though Sharjah is a batting paradise, Adair with his variations and pace can cause some trouble. 

Today’s Match Prediction: Afghanistan to win the match

Scenario 1

Afghanistan win the toss and bat

Power Play score – 60-70

First Innings Score - 260-280

Afghanistan  win the match

Scenario 2

Ireland win the toss and bat

Power Play score - 70-80

First Innings Score- 270-280

Ireland win the match

Also Check: AFG vs IRE Dream11 Prediction 

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.