Dockrell In For? Ireland Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan- 4th ODI 2026

Ireland Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan - 4th ODI [Source: AFP]Ireland is set to host Afghanistan in the 4th ODI of the 5-game series on Wednesday, August 12. The match will be held at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast at 3:15 PM IST.Currently, Afghanistan are leading the series 2-0 as the first ODI was washed out due to rain. This means the upcoming 4th ODI is a do-or-die game for hosts Ireland to stay alive in the series.Ireland vs Afghanistan 4th ODI PreviewAfghanistan have dominated the ODI series against Ireland so far. They won the second ODI by a handsome margin of 92 runs in a rain-hit game that was reduced to 47 overs per side. While the third ODI went down to the wire, the visitors held their nerve to seal a 3-wicket win. With that victory, Afghanistan also secured direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Having said that, the 4th ODI is now an opportunity for Ireland to save face and stay alive in the series. Skipper Paul Stirling will definitely ponder the team combination. On that note, here’s the best Ireland Playing XI vs Afghanistan for the 4th ODI of the 5-match series.Also Read - How Can Ireland Qualify For 2027 World Cup After Direct Qualification Miss?Top Order - Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, Cade CarmichaelPaul Stirling, being the skipper, is likely to open with Andrew Balbirnie. Stirling got a good start in the third ODI by scoring 23 runs, but Andrew could muster only 7 runs. Hence, for Ireland to do well in the 4th ODI, the openers must have a good start.At no. 3, Ireland will trust Cade Carmichael as he scored 32 runs in the last game. This trio must convert these good starts into big scores for Ireland to put a competitive total on the board.Middle Order - Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Curtis Campher, George DockrellThe middle order has been a pressing issue for Ireland. Their collapse in the last game cost them big time. Hence, for this game, the Irish side is likely to make a change.While Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker and Curtis Campher are likely to retain their places due to experience, Benjamin Calitz may make way for seasoned all-rounder George Dockrell. The latter has scored 1459 runs in his 133-game-long ODI career while picking 111 wickets as well.Hence, the comeback of George Dockrell in the 4th ODI should be a no-brainer choice for Paul Stirling-led Ireland. He is a key plug that will bring much needed balance to the side. Bowling - Mark Adair, Gavin Hoey, Jai Moondra, Byron McDonoughThe pace attack of Ireland was led by Mark Adair and Jai Moondra, with Byron McDonough also chipping in a few overs from one end. Moondra has been ordinary so far. But his talent is undeniable, and Ireland will continue to back him.Gavin Hoey is the lone specialist spinner who picked up 4 wickets in the last game. Hence, his place is secured. Apart from these specialist bowlers, Harry Tector, George Dockrell and Paul Stirling are quality all-rounders who can chip in a few overs in need. Hence, overall, Ireland’s bowling is pretty tight-knit and won’t be changed for the 4th ODI.Ireland Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan- 4th ODI, 2026Paul Stirling (c), Andrew Balbirnie, Cade Carmichael, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Gavin Hoey, Jai Moondra, Byron McDonoughAlso Read - Cameron Green For Hardik Pandya Trade On The Brink Of Falling