Afghanistan vs Ireland: Zadran, Atal Smash Big Hundreds

Core News & Key Facts

Afghanistan produced another dominant batting display against Ireland in the fourth ODI of their 2026 tour at Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast on Wednesday, August 12. After Ireland won the toss and elected to bowl, Afghanistan quickly took control through an outstanding opening partnership.

At the latest stage of the innings, Afghanistan had reached 255/2 in 39.4 overs. Sediqullah Atal was unbeaten on 119 from 107 balls, striking 15 fours and three sixes, while Darwish Rasooli was at the crease after the dismissal of Ibrahim Zadran. The biggest moment came when Zadran completed a superb century before being bowled by Gavin Hoey for 107 from 118 balls. His innings included 11 fours and one six.

The performance put Afghanistan in an excellent position to post a formidable total, with more than 10 overs still available. The match was being played on a greener and more grass-covered surface than the previous game, with conditions expected to offer some early assistance to Ireland's seamers.

Context & Official Statements

Ireland entered the fourth ODI looking to fight back after Afghanistan established a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The first ODI was washed out, while Afghanistan won the second and third matches. In the second ODI, Rashid Khan produced a six-wicket haul as Afghanistan defeated Ireland by 92 runs.

Afghanistan had already secured an unassailable series lead before Wednesday's match. The third ODI saw Ireland bowled out for 206 before Afghanistan chased the target with three wickets and 31 balls remaining. Rashid Khan again played a key role during that victory.

For the fourth ODI, Afghanistan made one change, bringing Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi into the playing XI in place of Fazalhaq Farooqi. Ireland also made one alteration, with Liam McCarthy replacing Jai Moondra. Rahmat Shah continued as Afghanistan's captain, while Paul Stirling led Ireland.

Impact & What to Expect Next

Zadran and Atal's partnership has given Afghanistan a major advantage in the fourth ODI. Their centuries came after Ireland had chosen to bowl first, making the visitors' batting response particularly significant.

The innings also highlighted Afghanistan's growing depth at the top of the order. Zadran's 107 and Atal's 119 provided the platform for Afghanistan to accelerate during the final phase of the innings. With the visitors already leading the series, a big total would put further pressure on Ireland's struggling batting lineup.

Ireland have faced major difficulties against Afghanistan's bowling attack throughout the series, particularly against Rashid Khan and Allah Ghazanfar. Their batters will now face the challenge of chasing what could become a substantial target.

The fourth ODI is therefore another opportunity for Afghanistan to underline their dominance on the tour, while Ireland need a strong response to prevent the series from slipping further away. The fifth and final ODI is scheduled to follow on August 14, giving both sides another chance to finish the series strongly.