George Dockrell To Return? Ireland Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan- 3rd ODI 2026

George Dockrell for Ireland. [Source - AFP]

After suffering a defeat in the second ODI, Ireland will be looking to bounce back when they take on Afghanistan in the third ODI of the five-match series at Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast.

The match is scheduled to begin at 3:15 PM (IST) on Monday, August 10, with Afghanistan holding the early advantage after taking a 1-0 lead. Ireland will be eager to level the series and make the necessary changes to their playing XI.

Ireland vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI Preview

Ireland suffered a 92-run defeat against Afghanistan in the second ODI, falling short while chasing 300 in a rain-reduced 47-over contest. Their bowlers struggled to finish strongly, while the batting unit failed to capitalize on opportunities.

Paul Stirling's return from injury also failed to make an impact. The second ODI also saw several debuts, including exciting youngster Jai Moondra, as Ireland continued experimenting with their combination ahead of their 2027 World Cup qualification campaign.

With Afghanistan leading the series 1-0, Ireland must respond quickly in Belfast. George Dockrell could return to the playing XI, bringing valuable experience and balance. Here is Ireland's predicted XI for the 3rd ODI of the five-match series against Afghanistan. 

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Openers and Top Order (Paul Stirling (c), Andy Balbirnie, Cade Carmichael)

Paul Stirling is expected to retain his place at the top despite managing just five runs in the second ODI after returning from injury. Ireland will hope their captain can rediscover his rhythm and provide the aggressive start the side needs in Belfast.

Andy Balbirnie offered some resistance in the second ODI, scoring a decent 36 off 42 balls after Stirling's early dismissal. His ability to absorb the initial pressure makes him an important part of Ireland's experienced top-order combination.

Cade Carmichael once again looked solid at No. 3 and is likely to continue his role in the position. He scored his maiden ODI half-century in the second ODI, scoring 62 runs, making him a key part of Ireland's plans for 2027 World Cup qualification road. 

Middle-order and Allrounders (Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, George Dockrell)

Ireland's middle-order will be under pressure after failing to build on the platform created by their top order in the second ODI. Harry Tector fell early, while Lorcan Tucker failed to convert his start into a big innings. 

Curtis Campher also began aggressively but could not turn his positive start into a big score. Despite that, all three are expected to retain their places, with Ireland likely to back their experience and ability to bounce back in Belfast.

Benjamin Calitz showed plenty of promise on debut, producing an impressive 27 off just 15 balls. However, George Dockrell could replace him at No. 7, giving Ireland much-needed experience and an additional all-round option in the lower middle-order.

Bowlers (Mark Adair, Jai Moondra, Andy McBrine, Byron McDonough)

Ireland’s bowling attack will once again be led by experienced pacer Mark Adair, who was the pick of the bowlers in the second ODI. Adair delivered an impressive spell, conceding just 40 runs from his 10 overs, and will remain a key figure across phases.

Left-arm pacer Jai Moondra had a difficult ODI debut. He conceded 78 runs in his nine overs but managed to pick up two wickets. Despite the expensive outing, Moondra is expected to retain his place as Ireland’s playing XI in 3rd ODI.

Ireland could make a change in the spin department, with Andy McBrine potentially replacing Gavin Hoey. Meanwhile, Byron McDonough, who featured in the previous game, is expected to continue as the third pace option in Ireland's predicted playing XI.

Ireland Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan- 3rd ODI, 2026

Paul Stirling (c), Andy Balbirnie, Cade Carmichael, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Andy McBrine, Mark Adair, Jai Moondra, and Byron McDonough.

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