Sri Lanka beats Afghanistan by two runs in Asia Cup thriller

Pakistan and India have already qualified for the Super Four stage from Group A

Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis reacts as he walks off the field after his dismissal during the Asia Cup cricket match between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka in Lahore, Pakistan on Tuesday, September 5, 2023. | Photo Credit: AP

Sri Lanka defeated Afghanistan by two runs to end their hopes of qualifying for the Asia Cup Super 4 stage here on Tuesday.

Afghanistan, who needed to chase a target of 292 in 37.1 overs, fought hard but were bowled out for 289 in 37.4 overs despite fifties from Mohammad Nabi (65) and Hashmatullah Shahidi (59).

Kasun Rajitha took four wickets for Sri Lanka.

Earlier in the first innings, Sri Lanka posted a total of 291 for eight after Kusal Mendis top scored with 92.

The other Sri Lanka batters in Pathum Nissanka (41), Dimuth Karunaratne (32), Charith Asalanka (36) and Dunith Wellalage (33 not out) made vital contributions.

For Afghanistan, Gulbadin Naib returned figures of 4/60 while Rashid Khan picked up two wickets.

Brief scores:

Sri Lanka 291/8 in 50 overs (Pathum Nissanka 41, Dimuth Karunaratne 32, Kusal Mendis 92, Charith Asalanka 36; Gulbadin Naib 4/60) beat Afghanistan 289 in 37.4 overs (Hashmatullah Shahidi 59, Mohammad Nabi 65; Kasun Rajitha 4/79) by 2 runs.