Afghanistan sealed a series victory over Ireland with a game to spare at Stormont, winning the fourth ODI by 42 runs. Ibrahim Zadran and Sediq Atal both hit centuries in a record second-wicket stand of 231, as Afghanistan posted 343-9 – their highest total in the format. Ireland, chasing a record ODI target, were bowled out for 301 despite a fine 109 from Andrew Balbirnie and 86 from Curtis Campher.

Rashid Khan took 3-49 to become the leading wicket-taker in the series with 12 scalps. Ireland, under new head coach Gary Wilson, have now lost eight straight ODIs against Afghanistan and have already surrendered the five-match series 3-0. The final game is on Friday at Stormont.

Despite the defeat, Gavin Hoey continued to impress with two key wickets, while Balbirnie’s century was a timely reminder of his value at the top of the order. Curtis Campher provided middle-order impetus but fell short of a deserved century. The series marks the start of Ireland’s preparations for February’s World Cup qualifiers, but the results have dampened hopes after June’s T20 triumph over India.