Afghanistan vs Ireland 2017: 5th ODI, 5 Talking Points

#2 Stuart Thompson and Tim Murtagh's perfect opening spell

Thompson and Murtagh bowled well for Ireland at the start

Ireland did not have Peter Chase for the decider and opened the attack with Thompson and Murtagh. The duo kept Shahzad and debutant, Najeeb Tarakai in check. Thompson justified the move to open with him when he had the dangerous Shahzad caught at backward point.

Murtagh then removed the debutant with a well-disguised off-cutter that was slogged to the deep fieldsman. The duo kept the scoring rate under check and ensured Afghanistan’s middle-order were put under pressure.

Stanikzai and Rahmat were not allowed any free runs either as the new pair struggled against the lines bowled by the Ireland seamers. The duo finished their opening spells with Afghanistan at 28/2.