Yet another landmark moment is about to unfold as Afghanistan and Ireland lock horns with each other in a Test match for the first time in the history of international cricket. Both teams have played one Test match each till now, and it will be their second ever outing in the longest format when they take each other on at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun on Friday morning. Both teams played their first Test match against two powerhouses, India and Pakistan. While Afghanistan was blown-out by India, Ireland produced an inspirational performance which saw them having Pakistan on the mat for the first couple of days.
Ireland are more accustomed to this format courtesy their first class experience back home and in England. Afghanistan may not be equally adept in this format but the have shown that they are quick learners. Still they are a threat to Ireland considering the enormous talent in their side.
Although Afghanistan started the tour on a bright note, whitewashing Ireland 3-0 in the T20I series, the visitors made a strong comeback as they drew the ODI series 2-2. As the Test begins, both sides will be eager to make a statement and make their presence felt in the purest format of the game as well.
Weather and Pitch conditions: Clear weather throughout the five days. Pitch will be generally good for batting and will aid the spinners as the game progresses.
Player Recommendations:
Wicket-keeper: Stuart Poynter (8.5 Cr)
Poynter is the first
Yet another landmark moment is about to unfold as Afghanistan and Ireland lock horns with each other in a Test match for the first time in the history of international cricket. Both teams have played one Test match each till now, and it will be their second ever outing in the longest format when they take each other on at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun on Friday morning. Both teams played their first Test match against two powerhouses, India and Pakistan. While Afghanistan was blown-out by India, Ireland produced an inspirational performance which saw them having Pakistan on the mat for the first couple of days.
Ireland are more accustomed to this format courtesy their first class experience back home and in England. Afghanistan may not be equally adept in this format but the have shown that they are quick learners. Still they are a threat to Ireland considering the enormous talent in their side.
Although Afghanistan started the tour on a bright note, whitewashing Ireland 3-0 in the T20I series, the visitors made a strong comeback as they drew the ODI series 2-2. As the Test begins, both sides will be eager to make a statement and make their presence felt in the purest format of the game as well.
Weather and Pitch conditions: Clear weather throughout the five days. Pitch will be generally good for batting and will aid the spinners as the game progresses.
Player Recommendations:
Wicket-keeper: Stuart Poynter (8.5 Cr)
Poynter is the first choice wicket-keeper for this match owing to his first class experience and better fitness than Mohammad Shahzad. He has the ability to dig in and bat for long hours.
Batsman: Andrew Balbirnie (9 Cr)
Balbirnie is the best among all Irish batsmen. He showed that again and again during the ODI series. He has the ability to play the long game and score runs at the same time.
All-Rounder: George Dockrell (9 Cr)
Dockrell has been in superb all-round form in this tour. He has been taking wickets and scoring runs as well. His role will be crucial in this match once again.
Bowler: Boyd Rankin (9 Cr)
Rankin will be a tough customer to handle for the Afghanistan batsmen. His experience of playing in county cricket will come in very handy in this match. Don't be surprised if he turns out to be the highest wicket-taker in this match.
Captain: George Dockrell
Vice-Captain: Andrew Balbirnie
