Cricholic
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan ended with a convincing result as Sri Lanka chased down 170 to win by 6 wickets at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Consequently, the Islanders advanced to the Super 4s, while Afghanistan’s campaign came to a disappointing close.
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Afghanistan’s innings lacked consistency 🏏
Afghanistan posted 169/8 in 20 overs, but their innings never found stability. Although Rahmanullah Gurbaz blasted 18 off 8 balls, his early dismissal immediately tilted the pressure back. Soon after, Sediqullah Atal and Karim Janat departed cheaply, and the innings lost momentum.
In the middle overs, Ibrahim Zadran (24 off 27) tried to rebuild. However, wickets kept falling around him, preventing a strong stand. Importantly, Mohammad Nabi’s sensational 60 off 22 balls revived Afghanistan’s hopes. Even with that explosive effort, the team struggled to convert the late surge into a commanding total.
With the ball, Nuwan Thushara stood out with 4/18. Moreover, Chameera and Wellalage supported him by picking up timely wickets. As a result, Afghanistan were contained to a manageable score.
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Mendis anchors a smooth chase 🌟
Chasing 170, Sri Lanka looked composed throughout and closed at 171/4 in 18.4 overs. Most importantly, Kusal Mendis anchored the chase with an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls, ensuring his side stayed on track.
Although Pathum Nissanka (6) and Kamil Mishara (4) fell early, Sri Lanka refused to panic. In addition, Kusal Perera (28 off 20) provided a steady hand through the middle overs. Later, Kamindu Mendis (26 off 13)* accelerated to seal the victory comfortably.
For Afghanistan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi grabbed wickets. Nevertheless, their efforts lacked consistency, and the bowling unit could not apply enough pressure.
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Full Scorecard 📊
Afghanistan Innings – 169/8 (20 over)
- Mohammad Nabi – 60 (22)
- Ibrahim Zadran – 24 (27)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 14 (8)
- Nuwan Thushara – 4/18
Sri Lanka Innings – 171/4 (18.4 overs)
- Kusal Mendis – 74* (52)
- Kusal Perera – 28 (20)
- Kamindu Mendis – 26* (13)
- Sri Lanka won by 6 wickets
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Key moments 🔍
- Firstly, Nuwan Thushara’s 4/18 broke Afghanistan’s top order.
- Secondly, Nabi’s 60 off 22 gave Afghanistan a fighting chance.
- However, Mendis’ unbeaten 74 proved to be the difference.
- Finally, Sri Lanka’s balanced performance secured their qualification.
What’s next? 🔥
This result meant Afghanistan exited the Asia Cup 2025. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will face Bangladesh in Dubai on September 20 in the first Super 4s clash. Therefore, momentum is clearly with the Islanders heading into the next stage.
