Ireland Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan- 5th ODI, 2026

Ireland. [Source - Cricket Ireland/X]

Ireland are set to take on Afghanistan in the fifth and final ODI of the five-match series on Friday, August 14. The match is scheduled to begin from 3:15 PM IST at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast. 

With Afghanistan already holding an unassailable 3-0 lead, Ireland will be aiming for a consolation victory in the series finale. The hosts are expected to make some changes to their predicted XI as they look to finish the five-match series on a high.

Ireland vs Afghanistan 5th ODI Preview

Ireland have struggled with both bat and ball against Afghanistan, with Paul Stirling’s return proving disappointing so far. While there have been glimpses of promise from the batting unit, Ireland remain far from convincing and need a stronger all-round performance in the 5th ODI.

With Stirling struggling for runs, questions could arise over whether the captain drops himself from Ireland’s playing XI for the fifth ODI. Ireland will need to assess their combination carefully as they seek a consolation win. Here is Ireland’s predicted XI for the final ODI against Afghanistan.

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

Paul Stirling is unlikely to be dropped despite a disappointing return to the Ireland squad. The skipper will be eager to find some crucial runs before Ireland begin their preparations for the 2027 World Cup qualification campaign.

Andy Balbirnie enters the fifth ODI on the back of a brilliant century in the previous game and will be key at the top. Young Cade Carmichael is expected to continue at No. 3, forming the rest of Ireland’s top order.

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Middle-order and Allrounders- Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, Benjamin Calitz

Ireland’s middle-order has been one of the major reasons behind their struggles in the series, repeatedly failing to convert promising starts into big scores. The unit will need to step up in Belfast in the 5th ODI.

Notably, Curtis Campher, at 6, finally converted his opportunity in the last game, smashing a blistering 84 off just 46 balls. His explosive knock provided Ireland with a much-needed boost and showcased the middle-order’s potential.

Harry Tector at 4 and Lorcan Tucker at 5 will be expected to contribute more in the finale, while Benjamin Calitz is likely to retain his place at 7. Ireland will want to give the youngster valuable playing time ahead of future challenges.

Bowlers- Mark Adair, Liam McCarthy, Gavin Hoey, Byron McDonough

Ireland’s bowling attack has remained inconsistent throughout the series, with the side conceding nearly 350 runs in the last ODI. Mark Adair has been the only consistent performer and will once again lead the pace attack in the fifth ODI.

Liam McCarthy made his return to Ireland's playing XI in the last game and is expected to retain his place. Meanwhile Byron McDonough, who has produced crucial wickets, could continue as the third pace option. 

Gavin Hoey has also contributed with important wickets with his leg spin, although Ireland could consider another option to strengthen their bowling combination. It will be interesting to see which route they take, but the expected attack should remain largely unchanged.

Ireland Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan- 5th ODI, 2026

Paul Stirling (c), Andy Balbirnie, Cade Carmichael, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, Benjamin Calitz, Mark Adair, Liam McCarthy, Gavin Hoey and Byron McDonough.

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