Ireland vs Afghanistan - 5th ODI Match 2026

Ireland and Afghanistan will face each other in the final match of the five-match ODI series at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont, Belfast on 15 August 2026. Afghanistan have performed brilliantly in the previous matches of the series and have established their dominance in the series with consecutive wins. As a result, the final match is an opportunity for Ireland to turn things around, while Afghanistan, on the other hand, will be looking to continue their winning streak.

In the fourth ODI of the series, Afghanistan scored 343/9 and bowled out Ireland for 301 to win by 42 runs. Afghanistan’s batting unit has shown consistency throughout the series. Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal in particular have been instrumental in providing a solid foundation for the team’s innings. Atal’s attacking batting has been particularly effective in increasing Afghanistan’s run-scoring pace.

On the other hand, Andy Balbirnie and Paul Stirling are the most important players in Ireland’s batting. Both have scored well in recent matches and their experience in the last match can help Ireland post big scores. However, it is crucial for them to get off to a good start against Afghanistan’s strong bowling attack.

Afghanistan’s biggest weapon in the bowling department is Rashid Khan. His 27 wickets in the last 9 matches and an economy rate of just 4.60 are proof of his excellent form. Along with him, Azmatullah Omarzai can make important contributions with both bat and ball. For Ireland, Mark Adair and Gavin Howie have the ability to change the course of the match with the ball.

The main challenge for Ireland in this match will be to handle Afghanistan’s spin attack and keep the batting in the game for long periods. Afghanistan are already ahead in terms of confidence. However, if Ireland start well in the powerplay and can keep wickets in the middle overs at home in Belfast, they can put Afghanistan under pressure.