Gurbaz century leads Afghanistan to victory against Ireland
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A superb 127 from debutant Rahmanullah Gurbaz helped Afghanistan to a 16-run win over Ireland in the first of three one-day internationals in Abu Dhabi. The opener anchored the Afghans' innings before Rashid Khan hit 55 off 30 balls to set Ireland 288 to win.
Andy McBrine was the pick of the bowlers with 5-29, but only Lorcan Tucker made a big impact with the bat.
The wicketkeeper's career-best 83 was not enough for Ireland to trouble Afghanistan's total.
The result gives Afghanistan 10 World Cup Super League points, with 20 more on offer from the remaining two games in the current series.
After missing out on the 2019 World Cup following defeat by Afghanistan in a winner-takes-all encounter, Ireland know they cannot afford a series whitewash should they wish to ensure qualification for the 2023 tournament.
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