Daijiworld Media Network - Belfast

Belfast, Aug 11: Afghanistan secured direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup after defeating Ireland by three wickets in the third ODI at the Civil Service Cricket Club here on Monday, August 10.

Chasing 207, Afghanistan endured a tense run chase but eventually reached the target to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

The victory secured Afghanistan a direct place in the 2027 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Ten teams will qualify directly for the tournament, while four more teams will earn their places through a 10-team qualifying tournament scheduled to be played in February and March next year.

Ireland, meanwhile, have missed out on direct qualification and will now have to compete in the qualifier for a place in the World Cup.

Rashid Khan played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s successful chase, remaining unbeaten on 37 to guide his side home.

Afghanistan appeared to be in trouble after losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for 71 in the 29th over. Gurbaz’s dismissal left the visitors at 149/5, with 57 runs still required.

Darwish Rasooli fell in the 31st over, increasing the pressure on Afghanistan.

Azmatullah Omarzai and Rashid Khan then added 22 runs for the seventh wicket before Mark Adair dismissed Omarzai.

With the match delicately poised, Rashid took responsibility for the chase. He received support from No. 9 Yamin Ahmadzai, who scored only four runs off 24 balls but remained at the crease and avoided unnecessary risks.

The cautious approach worked as Afghanistan never faced serious pressure from the required run rate. Rashid initially settled for singles before breaking free late in the innings.

The all-rounder hit three boundaries in four overs to finish the chase and seal Afghanistan’s place in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The result also highlighted Ireland’s difficult qualification situation, with the hosts now required to navigate the 10-team qualifier to keep their World Cup hopes alive.