AFG vs IRE Match Preview
Harry Tector is a solid batting option for your Dream11 team. He hit a half-century in the first match of the series and looked comfortable in Sharjah conditions. Tector is a kingpin in the middle order for the Irish. Anticipate another big showing from him.
Ben White is well worth considering. The Irish leg-spinner is a promising prospect. He could benefit from extra bounce and turn in Sharjah again. White's ability to bowl with accuracy and control is key. He has clever variations in pace, too.
For another leg-spinning option, but with far more experience, look to Rashid Khan. The Afghanistan captain was his team's top wicket-taker in the series opener. Khan has played T20 cricket around the world, for several domestic franchises. When he returns to international cricket, his performances are teling and make a big, positive impact for Afghanistan.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dismissed for a duck in the series opener. But this is not a man that will be put off by that. It should motivate him to bounce right back. Gurbaz hit a century in the preceding ODI series against the Irish. He knows what to expect from these opposition bowlers.
Ibrahim Zadran is a reasonable consideration in your Dream11 team, too. He could be a good complement for Gurbaz toward the the top of the order. Zadran is a good collector of runs - not necessarily a big-hitter. He plays spin well as well.
For another solid resource in your Dream11's bowling department, look at Nangeyalia Kharote. He took two important wickets in the first match of the series. Kharote doesn't have much international experience, but is quickly becoming a challenging spinner to keep an eye on.
Weather Report
No rain is forecast in Sharjah on matchday. Hot and humid weather are anticipated. Ireland, in particular, are going to have to keep adapting to the foreign conditions.
Pitch Report
A first-innings total of 160-plus can be considered competitive here. Both teams should play at least three specialist slow bowlers. The team to win the toss will possibly opt to bat first this time.
Notable stats
Rahmanullah Gurbaz vs Ireland
Gurbaz has hit seven centuries in international cricket. Two of those have come against Ireland - one at the ground for this second T20I.
Team News
Neither team are likely to change their XIs. Ireland should retain all-rounder Curtis Campher. He didn't bowl in the series opener. Afghanistan could play three spinners again, including Mohammad Nabi.
AFG vs IRE Probable 11
AFG Playing 11
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Sediqullah Atal
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Mohammad Ishaq (Wk)
- Mohammad Nabi
- Ijaz Ahmadzai
- Nangeyalia Kharote
- Rashid Khan (C)
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
IRE Playing 11
- Andy Balbirnie
- Paul Stirling (C)
- Lorcan Tucker (Wk)
- Harry Tector
- Curtis Campher
- Neil Rock
- Gareth Delany
- Barry McCarthy
- Josh Little
- Ben White
- Mark Adair
Dream11 Prediction
Afghanistan are in a good position to hit back and level the series scoreline here. Their batters and bowlers have plenty of big match temperament.
Top Picks
Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Put this hot talent in your Dream11 team and look forward to a telling contribution.
Rashid Khan: You can't look past one of the best leg-spinners in world cricket.
Harry Tector: He hit a half-century in the previous fixture and is in good form.
AFG vs IRE Dream11 Team 1
Keeper: Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Batters: Harry Tector, Ibrahim Zadran
All-rounders: Mark Adair (VC), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Nangeyalia Kharote
Bowlers: Rashid Khan (C), Josh Little, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Barry McCarthy
