Sri Lanka delivered a clinical performance to knock Afghanistan out of the Asia Cup 2025, securing a six-wicket victory in Abu Dhabi and booking their place in the Super Four alongside Bangladesh. The high-stakes clash saw Afghanistan’s campaign end in heartbreak, while Sri Lanka continued their unbeaten streak in the tournament.
A Do-or-Die Showdown in Abu Dhabi
The stakes couldn’t have been higher as Afghanistan faced Sri Lanka in their final Group B match at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium. With India and Pakistan already through from Group A, the last two Super Four spots were up for grabs between Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. For Afghanistan, it was a must-win scenario—anything less would mean elimination.
Sri Lanka, led by Charith Asalanka, had already shown their mettle with a dominant win over Bangladesh but looked shaky against Hong Kong China. Afghanistan, meanwhile, had impressed with their bowling but struggled for consistency with the bat. The group’s tight points table meant every run and wicket would count, with net run rate looming as a potential tiebreaker.
Nabi’s Fireworks Not Enough
Afghanistan’s innings was anchored by a breathtaking late assault from Mohammad Nabi, who smashed a 22-ball 60, including five sixes in the final over off Dunith Wellalage. Afghanistan posted a competitive 169/8, recovering from 137/7 after 19 overs thanks to Nabi’s heroics.
But the Afghan top order faltered under pressure, and despite the late surge, the total looked just about par on a good batting surface.
Kusal Mendis Steals the Show
Sri Lanka’s chase was all about composure and calculation. Kusal Mendis played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten on 74 off 53 balls. Sri Lanka needed only 101 runs to qualify for the Super Four, a target they reached comfortably by the 13th over. Mendis’ calm presence at the crease ensured there were no hiccups, and Sri Lanka crossed the finish line with nine balls to spare.
The result sent Bangladesh fans into celebration, as Sri Lanka’s win meant Bangladesh also advanced to the Super Four, while Afghanistan’s journey ended abruptly.
What This Means for the Asia Cup
With this victory, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh join India and Pakistan in the Super Four stage, which kicks off Saturday. Sri Lanka’s unbeaten run makes them a team to watch, while Afghanistan will rue missed opportunities, especially with their batting inconsistencies.
Key Takeaways
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Sri Lanka remains undefeated in the Asia Cup 2025 group stage.
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Kusal Mendis’ unbeaten 74 was the backbone of the chase.
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Mohammad Nabi’s 22-ball 60 was a rare highlight in Afghanistan’s campaign.
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Bangladesh advances to the Super Four thanks to Sri Lanka’s win.
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Afghanistan is eliminated, despite flashes of brilliance with both bat and ball.
Looking Ahead
The Super Four promises more high-octane clashes, with Sri Lanka carrying momentum and confidence. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will need to regroup and address their batting frailties if they hope to compete at this level in future tournaments.
For cricket fans, the Asia Cup drama is just heating up—expect more fireworks as the continent’s best battle for supremacy.
Sources
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