Mohammad Nabi proved instrumental for Afghanistan, contributing a crucial 48 runs before showcasing his prowess with the ball, clinching five wickets to secure a commanding 117-run victory over Ireland in Sharjah on Tuesday.
This triumph sealed a 2-0 win for Afghanistan in the three-match, one-day international series.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz, fresh from his century in the series opener, propelled Afghanistan to another strong start, crafting 51 runs off 53 balls before falling victim to spinner Andy McBrine, who claimed a return catch.
Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi maintained Afghanistan's momentum with his second consecutive half-century in ODIs, crafting a composed 69 runs, ensuring a competitive total despite a stumble in the middle overs.
Despite Nabi's crucial support, Afghanistan faced pressure from Ireland in the final overs, settling for 236-9. Mark Adair claimed 3-51, while Barry McCarthy took two wickets.
Ireland's innings started promisingly until opener Andy Balbirnie departed early. Despite reaching 50, skipper Paul Stirling's dismissal halted Ireland's progress, followed by Harry Tector's departure for three.
Nabi's crafty off-spin accounted for Tector and Lorcan Tucker, while debutant Nangeyalia Kharote made an impressive impact, dismissing key Irish batsmen and triggering a dramatic collapse, with Ireland losing five wickets for just two runs.
Nabi's spell intensified, as he bowled McBrine and Graham Hume, securing his first ODI five-wicket haul with figures of 5-17.
Kharote complemented Nabi's performance, claiming four wickets for 30 runs, sealing a comprehensive victory.
Following the abandonment of the second ODI due to heavy rain, both teams will remain in Sharjah for three T20 matches scheduled for March 15, 17, and 18.
Ireland's victory in the preceding Test match marked their first win in the five-day format after seven consecutive losses.
