O'Brien stuns Afghanistan as Ireland win dramatic super over
- Ireland almost stumbled when they needed nine runs to win in the super over, but Kevin O'Brien stepped up under pressure.
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Kevin O'Brien hit a match-winning six as Ireland defeated Afghanistan in a dramatic super over to avoid a Twenty20 series whitewash.
With all three matches being played in Greater Noida, India, the series outcome was already decided after the opening two contests were won by Afghanistan, but that did not prevent a thrilling finale.
Ireland posted 142-8 after winning the toss and electing to bat, Afghanistan debutant Qais Ahmad and Naveen-ul-Haq combining for six wickets as Gareth Delany top-scored with 37.
In response, an innings of 42 from opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz set up an intriguing run chase which left his side needing 16 off the final over.
It looked like it was all over for Afghanistan when captain Asghar Afghan (32) was dismissed with three balls left and 13 runs still needed.
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But Rashid Khan, helped by two wides from bowler Josh Little, hit a four off the last delivery to thrillingly force a super over as they ended on 142-7.
Craig Young then superbly restricted Afghanistan to only eight and although Ireland initially stumbled, leaving them needing three off the final ball, man-of-the-match O'Brien cleared the ropes.
Kevin O'Brien wins it with a six off the last ball of the Super Over!!
What an end to a sensational game of cricket.#AFGvIRE pic.twitter.com/ZdtaYWSV3j — ICC (@ICC) March 10, 2020
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Published 10 Mar 2020, 19:40 IST
