Defeat for Ireland

Ireland's cricketers suffered a confidence blow in their preparations for this summer's T20 World Cup with a series defeat against Afghanistan.

They were beaten by 57 runs in the deciding match in Sharjah.

Paul Stirling's side were set a target of 156 to win but were bowled all out for 98.

Curtis Campher was Ireland's top scorer with 28.

Australia have pulled out of their T-20 cricket series against Afghanistan due to concerns over "deteriorating human rights conditions" for women and girls in the country.

They had been due to play three T-20 internationals against them in August.

Afghanistan is the only full member international nation without a women�s team in the sport.