The Lions victory over Afghanistan

Sri Lanka chased downed a difficult 171-run target that the Afghanistan XI posted in their earlier innings they chose to play in their decider.

Afghanistan XI posted a big target, led by an all-time batting performance from Mohammad Nabi. His explosive 60 off just 22 balls that included a stunning 32 runs off 6 balls, earned him the title of Most Valuable Player of the match. But Openers Gurbaz (14), Sediqullah Atal (18), Janat (1), and skipper Rashid Khan (24) were all dismissed by rival bowler Thushara, who delivered a match-defining spell.

Sri Lanka responded confidently against their rivals’ bowling attack, which had set out to dismantle the Lions’ batting lineup. However, no pacer or spinner managed to take more than one wicket each, with the bowlers collectively claiming just four wickets in total. Top batter Kusal Mendis played a resilient unbeaten knock for his team, staying at the crease until the final run, which earned him the Player of the Match award.

Kusal Perera’s 28 off 20, skipper Asalanka’s 17, and Kamindu Mendis’ unbeaten 26 collectively added 71 valuable runs to Sri Lanka’s chase. Nissanka and Kamil also chipped in with 6 and 4 runs, helping set the stage for the final push. The chase was ultimately sealed–thanks in part to 16 extras conceded by the Afghan bowlers which brought the game to a close.