Ireland have placed their faith in fresh faces, overseas-born talent and attacking intent for next week’s five-match ODI series against Afghanistan, with Byron McDonough earning a first senior call-up and Jai Moondra and Ben Calitz in line for 50-over debuts.

The squad covers the opening three matches at Bready and Stormont, after which fitness levels will be reassessed and changes considered for the final two fixtures.

Gary Wilson takes charge of an ODI series for the first time, but the selection continues a trend evident under former head coach Heinrich Malan of backing players born outside Ireland who have qualified to represent the country.

McDonough and Calitz were born in South Africa, while Moondra was born in India. Their inclusion reflects Ireland’s continued willingness to cast the net widely, although all three have earned selection through performances within the Irish domestic structure or in the recent international programme.

McDonough forced his way into contention after helping Leinster Lightning win the Inter-Provincial 50-over Cup. Moondra impressed during the historic T20I series against India, while Calitz’s explosive hitting has brought him a first ODI squad call-up.

National selector Andrew White highlighted McDonough and Moondra’s contrasting qualities, Gavin Hoey’s wicket-taking threat through the middle overs and Calitz’s ability to transform an innings from the middle or lower order.

Wilson has made it clear Ireland intend to attack Afghanistan rather than merely contain them.

“We have selected a squad that is reflective of the way in which we want to play,” he said. “We want to play the conditions and situations in front of us but ultimately be dynamic and look for opportunities to put pressure on the opposition.”

The new coach also wants his bowlers hunting wickets and his fielders displaying the “never say die attitude” associated with Ireland’s finest sides.

His options have been restricted by injuries, with Josh Little, Matt Hollard, Craig Young, Barry McCarthy, Jordan Neill and David Delany all unavailable.

Paul Stirling continues as captain, supported by an experienced core including Andrew Balbirnie, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Curtis Campher, Mark Adair, George Dockrell and Andrew McBrine.

Ireland have not played ODI cricket for 15 months, but confidence should be high following their landmark T20I victories over India in June.