George Dockrell replaces Mark Adair in Ireland squad for ODI series against Afghanistan

Left-arm spinner George Dockrell has been named as the replacement for seamer Mark Adair for Ireland’s One-Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan. The first of five-match series between the two nations kick starts at Stormont on Sunday. Adir was to make his first international appearance but it seems as though he will have to wait a bit longer to do so. Ireland coach John Bracewell believes there will be assistance for the spinners and hence Dockrell has been called in to replace a fast bowler. Sean Terry in the only other new face in the squad. Max Sorensen and Boyd Rankin do not find a place in the squad. READ: Ireland announce ODI against WI and tri-series

Ireland recently lost a two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka at home and will hope to put on a better show against Afghanistan, whose rise in international cricket has been phenomenal. Afghanistan too are in good form, having won the ODI series against Scotland.

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Ireland will play many big guns in 2017. They will travel to England to play a couple of ODIs against the hosts. They will also play a one-off ODI against West Indies at home, followed by a tri-series involving New Zealand and Bangladesh as well. READ: William Porterfield, Peter Borren slam ICC for lack of opportunities

Ireland have been giant killers in the past. They beat West Indies in the ICC World Cup 2015. They also beat Pakistan in ICC World Cup 2011 and England in the next edition. They are also fighting for a Test status. It will indeed be a historic moment, if they were to achieve it.