Afghanistan secured the one-day international series against Ireland with a 42-run victory in the fourth match at Stormont on Wednesday. The result gave Afghanistan a 3-0 lead in the five-match series with one fixture still scheduled.
Afghanistan made 343 for nine in their innings before Ireland were bowled out for 301 in 48 overs. The margin of victory was 42 runs, according to the scorecard for the fourth ODI.<br><br>Sediqullah Atal made 143 for Afghanistan and was named player of the match on ESPNcricinfo’s scorecard. His innings was the leading individual score recorded in the match details supplied for the game.
The fourth ODI was played at Stormont on 12 August. Cricket Ireland listed the fixture at the Belfast venue, where Afghanistan’s victory ensured they could no longer be overtaken by Ireland in the five-match series.<br><br>Afghanistan’s total of 343 for nine set Ireland a substantial chase. Ireland reached 301 before being dismissed in the 48th over, leaving Afghanistan with the 42-run win.
The result moved Afghanistan to a 3-0 series advantage. With the series consisting of five matches, the fourth-ODI outcome secured the overall contest for Afghanistan despite one game remaining.<br><br>The final ODI is scheduled to be played at Stormont on 15 August. It will follow Afghanistan’s series-clinching win in the fourth match at the same venue.
Atal’s 143 was recognised with the player-of-the-match award in the ESPN scorecard. Afghanistan’s innings finished at 343 for nine, while Ireland’s reply ended at 301, providing the decisive numbers behind the 42-run result.
Ireland will have one remaining opportunity in the series when the teams return to Stormont on 15 August. Afghanistan will enter that match with an unassailable 3-0 lead after sealing the series on Wednesday evening in Belfast.