Sri Lanka Favored But Afghanistan Can Surprise
Moreover, experts give SL a 60% win probability. Conversely, AFG holds a 40% chance. Therefore, Sri Lanka enters as the favorite. However, Afghanistan can still pull off an upset.
SL vs AFG Match Details
| Match | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Match 11, Asia Cup 2025 |
| Venue | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Date & Time | Thursday, September 18, 8:00 PM (IST) |
| Live Broadcast and Streaming | Sony Sports Network, SonyLIV (App & Website), & YuppTV (App & Website) |
Preview
Sri Lanka (SL) will take on Afghanistan (AFG) in the 11th match of the Asia Cup 2025 on Thursday, September 18, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Sri Lanka have won both their matches so far and are in top place in Group B. Afghanistan have won and lost one game each and are in third position. The team that will win this game will advance to the Super Four stage. Sri Lanka and Afghanistan have played a total of eight T20I matches so far. Afghanistan have won three out of these eight matches.
Sri Lanka took on Hong Kong in their previous match and elected to bowl after winning the toss. Hong Kong scored 149 runs for the loss of four wickets in 20 overs. Dushmantha Chameera was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka and took two wickets for 29 runs in four overs. Sri Lanka took 18.5 overs to reach the target of 150 runs and won the match by four wickets. Pathum Nissanka was the highest scorer and made 68 runs off 44 deliveries. He won the Player of the Match award for his batting performance.
Afghanistan faced Bangladesh in their last outing, and Bangladesh scored 154 runs for the loss of five wickets. Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad took two wickets each for Afghanistan. Rahmanullah Gurbaz made 35 runs off 31 deliveries and was the highest scorer for the team. Afghanistan required 22 runs off the last over and managed to score 13 runs. Afghanistan were bundled out for 146 runs on the last delivery of their innings and went on to lose the match by eight runs.
Key Players To Watch Closely
Firstly, Pathum Nissanka anchors Sri Lanka’s top order. Similarly, Wanindu Hasaranga leads their spin attack. Meanwhile, Afghanistan counters with Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Also, captain Rashid Khan controls the middle overs. Furthermore, Noor Ahmad adds vital left-arm spin.
Recent Form Gives Sri Lanka Edge
Notably, Sri Lanka won both group games so far. In contrast, Afghanistan split their two matches. Therefore, Sri Lanka’s momentum is stronger. Additionally, their batting looks more settled. However, Afghanistan’s spinners remain dangerous.
Pitch And Weather Will Shape Tactics
Importantly, Abu Dhabi’s pitch slightly favors spinners. Also, evening dew makes chasing easier. Consequently, teams will likely bowl first. Moreover, temperatures start near 32°C. Furthermore, humidity and dew impact ball grip later.
Head-To-Head Record Is Tight
Interestingly, Sri Lanka leads 3-2 in Asia Cup games. However, Afghanistan won their last encounter in March 2024. Therefore, recent history suggests a close contest. Also, most past matches were decided by narrow margins.
SL vs AFG Head to Head
| Matches Played | 08 |
| Won By Sri Lanka | 05 |
| Won By Afghanistan | 03 |
| Tied | 00 |
| First-Ever Fixture | March 17, 2016 |
| Most-Recent Fixture | February 21, 2024 |
SL vs AFG Predicted Playing XIs
Sri Lanka (SL):
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka(c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara
Afghanistan (AFG):
Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz(w), Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan(c), Noor Ahmad, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Betting Odds Reflect Sri Lanka’s Lead
Currently, bookmakers offer Sri Lanka at 1.70 odds. Conversely, Afghanistan sits at 2.25. Hence, Sri Lanka is the safer bet. Nevertheless, Afghanistan offers higher returns. Also, player markets like Gurbaz or Rashid hold value.
Fantasy Cricket Picks And Avoids
For fantasy teams, pick Rashid Khan for sure. Also, Azmatullah Omarzai is a top all-rounder pick. However, avoid Kusal Perera and Kusal Mendis. Moreover, both Sri Lankan batters struggled recently. Therefore, their fantasy value is currently low.
Final Prediction SL vs AFG
Ultimately, Sri Lanka is our predicted winner. If they chase, expect a 4-6 wicket win. Alternatively, if they bat first, win by 25-35 runs. However, never underestimate Afghanistan’s spin power. Also, a strong start from Gurbaz can change everything.