Sri Lanka secured their place in the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2025 with a convincing six-wicket victory over Afghanistan in a crucial Group B match held at Abu Dhabi.
Chasing a target of 170 runs, the Sri Lankan team displayed composure and control, reaching the finish line with eight balls to spare. This win saw them join Bangladesh as the two teams advancing from Group B to the next phase of the tournament.
Afghanistan, eager to keep their campaign alive, struggled to post a competitive total. Despite a late surge from Mohammad Nabi, their innings was curtailed at 169 for 8, thanks to disciplined bowling and sharp fielding from the Sri Lankan side. Bowlers Nuwan Thushara and Dasun Shanaka played pivotal roles, striking at crucial moments to prevent Afghanistan from building any sustained partnerships.
In response, Sri Lanka never appeared in real trouble. Opener Kusal Mendis set the tone early on with a brisk start, while the middle order ensured the chase remained steady without any hiccups. Although Afghanistan briefly threatened by taking a couple of wickets in the middle overs, the target was modest enough that scoreboard pressure was never truly felt.
With this victory, Sri Lanka finishes the group stage unbeaten and heads into the Super 4 with strong momentum. Afghanistan, on the other hand, crash out of the tournament after failing to match the consistency of their group rivals. Bangladesh also qualified for the Super 4.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/asia-cup-2025-sri-lanka-ease-past-afghanistan-by-6-wickets-seal-super-4-spot-alongside-bangladesh-from-group-b
