Sri Lanka defeated Afghanistan by six wickets, riding on Kusal Mendis’ brilliant half-century in the 11th match of the Asia Cup 2025 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, September 18. Afghanistan had won the toss and opted to bat first, a decision that backfired.
Their openers got off to a quick start but faltered soon after, as Nuwan Thushara struck twice in an over to bring Sri Lanka right into the game. The Afghan middle order struggled to convert starts, before veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi turned the tide with a blistering knock. Nabi scored a stunning 60 off just 22 deliveries. Thushara was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with 4/18 in his four-over spell.
Chasing the target, Sri Lanka lost openers Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara cheaply. However, Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a superb unbeaten 74 off 52 balls. He was well-supported by Kusal Perera (28 off 20), Charith Asalanka (17 off 12), and Kamindu Mendis, who chipped in with a quick-fire 26* from 13 balls, as Sri Lanka comfortably crossed the line.
With this victory, Sri Lanka advanced to the Super Four stage alongside Bangladesh from Group B. From Group A, India and Pakistan also secured their spots in the next round, as the four teams have been locked and the opponents have been finalized.
Talking Points
1. Mohammad Nabi’s blitz
Afghanistan were struggling at one stage, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, experienced veteran Mohammad Nabi showcased his class, scoring a blistering 60 off 22 balls. He smashed five sixes in the 20th over bowled by Dunith Wellalage and added three fours in a spectacular cameo.
2. Thushara dismantles Afghanistan
Nuwan Thushara was the star with the ball for Sri Lanka, claiming four wickets for just 18 runs in his four-over spell. He uprooted the stumps of Sediqullah Atal, Karim Janat, and Rashid Khan, and also dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz, playing a crucial role in restricting the opposition to a smaller total.
3. Kusal Mendis anchors the chase
While wickets tumbled at the other end, Kusal Mendis held his ground and led Sri Lanka to victory. He scored an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls, including 10 boundaries, steering his team to a six-wicket win. The opening batter was also given the Player of the Match for remaining unbeaten in a must-win encounter for the Charith Asalanka-led side.
Who said what?
Kusal Mendis, Player of the Match
I am very happy. I got good support. I enjoyed it. The spinners were bowling a little faster compared to the other teams. Kamindu batted well. Made it easier for me. We will have three good games in the Super Four. I hope we will do well.
Rashid Khan, Afghanistan (Losing Captain)
The way we finished it was so special. To hit 5 sixes was unbelievable. We bowled not as good as we should have. It was pretty hard on that track. It wasn’t the typical Abu Dhabi wicket. It was possible to chase 170-180. We had a great chance to chase 150 odd in the last game. But that’s the nature of T20 cricket. We had great preparation for this. We had worked hard and trained hard. We made it to the semis of the T20 WC. We at least thought of making it to the next round here.
Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka (Winning Captain)
I am really pleased with the performance. Almost a perfect game for us. Pacers did the job. Only the last over went wrong for us. Thushara is a phenomenal guy. He bowls two or three overs in the powerplay and does the role for the country. Perera was outstanding with the catches. We want to be the best fielding side in T20s. You need to catch everything in the shorter format. Our supporters support us more in foreign countries.
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