Afghan captain Rahmat Shah played a masterclass innings of 143* to secure a 4-0 ODI series win for Afghanistan against Ireland. His century shattered previous records held by Hashmatullah Shahidi.

Key Takeaways

  • Rahmat Shah scored an unbeaten 143 runs in the 5th ODI.
  • Afghanistan clinched the ODI series 4-0 against Ireland.
  • Shah broke Hashmatullah Shahidi's record for the highest score by an Afghan captain.
  • He becomes only the third Afghan captain to score an ODI century.

In a commanding display of leadership and batting prowess, Afghan captain Rahmat Shah orchestrated a stunning victory against Ireland in the fifth and final ODI. Playing at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast, Shah remained unbeaten on 143 runs, guiding his team to a 6-wicket victory and securing a dominant 4-0 series win for Afghanistan.

Shah's innings was a masterclass in composure and aggression. Scoring 143 runs off just 133 balls, his knock included 13 boundaries and 2 massive sixes, maintaining a strike rate of 107.51. With this performance, he etched his name into the history books as only the third Afghan captain—joining Asghar Afghan and Hashmatullah Shahidi—to register an ODI century. More importantly, he surpassed Hashmatullah Shahidi's record for the highest individual score by an Afghan captain in ODIs.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Rahmat Shah's ability to perform under pressure marks a shift in Afghan cricket's maturity. Moving beyond being 'underdogs,' the team is now demonstrating the tactical discipline required to dominate mid-tier international sides consistently.

Rahmat Shah's century is not just a statistical achievement; it is a statement of intent from the new era of Afghan leadership.

The chase was bolstered by a massive 201-run partnership for the third wicket between Shah and Sedatullah Atwal. Atwal played a blistering knock of 98 runs off 112 balls, narrowly missing out on a century. Their partnership effectively broke the back of the Irish bowling attack, leaving the hosts with no way back.

Did You Know?: Rahmat Shah's 143* is the highest score ever recorded by an Afghan captain in One Day International cricket.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was the final score of the series?
Afghanistan won the ODI series against Ireland with a convincing 4-0 scoreline.

2. Who held the previous record for the highest Afghan captain's score?
The previous record was held by Hashmatullah Shahidi, who scored 102 against India.