(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Asia Cup 2025: Sri Lanka Beat Afghanistan to Reach Super Four, Bangladesh Also Qualify
Abu Dhabi — Sri Lanka secured their place in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four with a convincing six-wicket win over Afghanistan, knocking their opponents out of the tournament in the process.
Opener Kusal Mendis played a match-winning knock of 74 not out off 52 balls, guiding Sri Lanka to victory in just 18.4 overs while chasing 170. His composed innings ensured that the defending champions not only won comfortably but also boosted their net run rate.
Sri Lanka’s triumph also confirmed Bangladesh’s qualification for the Super Four stage, joining India and Pakistan from Group A.
Afghanistan’s Fightback
Afghanistan were in trouble at 79-6 in the 13th over, but veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi turned the innings around with a breathtaking 60 off 22 balls, including five consecutive sixes in the final over bowled by Dunith Wellalage. Despite his heroics, Afghanistan managed only 169-8, with Nuwan Thushara starring for Sri Lanka with figures of 4-18.
Nabi’s late fireworks gave Afghanistan hope, but their bowlers could not contain Sri Lanka’s batting unit.
Sri Lanka Seal It in Style
Sri Lanka needed only 101 runs to qualify on net run rate, regardless of the match result, but they went for the win and achieved it with ease. Alongside Mendis, Kamindu Mendis chipped in with a quickfire cameo of 22 off 13 balls, striking two sixes to finish the chase in style.
What’s Next?
-
The group stage concludes with India vs Oman on Friday.
-
Sri Lanka will open the Super Four round against Bangladesh on Saturday.
-
The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash takes place in Dubai on Sunday.
-
The Asia Cup final is scheduled for 28 September.
With Sri Lanka in strong form and the Super Four lineup confirmed, fans can expect thrilling battles ahead.
