IRE vs AFG 5th ODI Live: Omarzai, Ghazanfar Strike as Ireland Struggles After 20 Overs

Belfast: An inspired bowling performance from Azmatullah Omarzai and Allah Muhammad Ghazanfar left Ireland in a deep hole, restricting the hosts to a precarious 102 for 4 at the 20-over mark in the fifth and final ODI at Stormont.

Afghan Duo Rips Through Irish Top Order

Opting to field first under heavy, overcast skies, Afghanistan’s captain Rahmat Shah utilized the green-tinged surface flawlessly. Striking early, pace spearhead Omarzai generated sharp lateral movement to remove Irish captain Paul Stirling for a quickfire 20. Soon after, Omarzai bamboozled Andrew Balbirnie, crashing into his stumps for 13 to leave the home side struggling at 39 for 2.

Ireland’s attempts to construct a middle-order recovery were repeatedly halted by a relentless Afghan attack. Cade Carmichael showed technical resolve for his 22 before becoming Ghanzanfar's victim. The slide quickly worsened when wicketkeeper-batsman Lorcan Tucker was dismissed cheaply for 7 runs off 12 balls, leaving the Irish scorecard reading a dismal 99 for 4 at the 18.4-over mark.

Tector Alone In Rebuilding Mission

Following the rapid collapse of the top order, middle-order general Harry Tector was left with a monumental salvage operation. Tector absorbed the immense pressure with superb application, finishing the 20th over unbeaten.

With Omarzai (2/26) and Ghazanfar (2/20) completely dictating the tempo, fans tracking the Ireland vs Afghanistan 5th ODI live action are witnessing a gritty battle as the hosts fight to deny Afghanistan a flawless 4-0 series clean sweep.

Watch IRE vs AFG 5th ODI live on tapmad.