Ireland to play Afghanistan in ODI series despite ECB concerns
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 4, 2026, 7:56 PM
Last updated Aug 4, 2026
Ireland's men's cricket team will host Afghanistan for a five-match ODI series starting Wednesday in Bready. This decision has raised concerns from the England and Wales Cricket Board, which refuses to play Afghanistan outside ICC events due to the Taliban's policies. The ECB believes this series could jeopardize future fixtures between England and Ireland, especially given its stance on Afghanistan amid the ongoing political situation. Ireland's commitment to the series suggests a focus on expanding their competitive schedule despite potential backlash.
- •Afghanistan series starts August 5, 2026, in Bready.
- •England refuses to face Afghanistan due to Taliban regime.
- •ECB criticizes Ireland's decision to host the series.
- •Series could affect Ireland's future matches against England.
- 7:56 PMThe Guardian Sport — Ireland risk ECB ire by agreeing to play five matches against Afghanistan
"First ODI of series will take place in Bready on Wednesday England refuse to face Afghanistan due to Taliban regime Ireland’s decision to stage a full one-day international series for their men’s team against Afghanistan this summer could cost them lucrative future fixtures against England. The England and Wales Cricket Board is understood to be unhappy about the series, which starts on Wednesday, taking place as England refuse to play Afghanistan outside International Cricket Council global events because of what the ECB chair, Richard Thompson, has described as the “gender apartheid” of the Taliban regime. Continue reading...
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