Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan highlights, Asia Cup 2025: Kusal Mendis’ calm fifty under pressure overshadowed the six-hitting fest from Mohammd Nabi as Sri Lanka knocked Afghanistan out of Asia Cup with a six-wicket win on Thursday, sending themselves and Bangladesh into the Super 4s.
Sri Lanka Crush Afghanistan to Seal Super Four Spot
Firstly, Kusal Mendis smashed an unbeaten 74 off just 52 balls. Consequently, he powered Sri Lanka to a commanding six-wicket victory. Moreover, this win kept their perfect Asia Cup 2025 record intact.
Mendis Steers Chase With Flawless Knock
Importantly, Mendis anchored the chase brilliantly under pressure. Afterwards, he found vital support from Kusal Perera and skipper Charith Asalanka. Furthermore, he targeted gaps and ran hard between wickets. Ultimately, he sealed the win with a boundary in the 19th over.
Afghan Spinners Fail to Contain Lankan Batsmen
However, Afghanistan’s famed spin attack looked toothless. Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad struggled for control. Meanwhile, Mendis cleverly played behind square to negate their threat. Therefore, Sri Lanka cruised home with 8 balls to spare.
Nabi’s Heroics Not Enough for Afghanistan
Earlier, Mohammad Nabi lit up the death overs with pure power. Specifically, he blasted 60 runs from only 22 deliveries. Shockingly, he smashed five sixes in the final over alone. Unfortunately, his fireworks lifted Afghanistan to just 169 for 8.
Sri Lanka’s Pacers Ripped Through Afghan Top Order
Initially, Nuwan Thushara demolished Afghanistan’s batting lineup. He claimed four crucial wickets, including their openers. Then, Wanindu Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka strangled the middle order. As a result, Afghanistan slumped to 79 for 6 before Nabi’s rescue act.
Super Four Lineup Now Confirmed After This Win
Finally, SLjoined India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in the Super Four. Additionally, Bangladesh celebrated wildly from the stands. Because Sri Lanka’s win eliminated Afghanistan. Thus, Group B’s fate was decided dramatically in Abu Dhabi.
Player of the Match Award Goes to Kusal Mendis
Unsurprisingly, Kusal Mendis earned the Player of the Match honor. He credited his teammates for their fielding brilliance. Also, he praised the Afghan spinners for their unique pace. Next, he said Sri Lanka is ready for tougher Super Four challenges.
Afghanistan Captain Rashid Khan Praises Nabi
Meanwhile, Rashid Khan lauded Nabi’s incredible last-over hitting. He called their late surge “really special.” Still, he admitted his bowlers lacked execution. Sadly, Afghanistan’s campaign ended with this heartbreaking loss.
Sri Lanka Captain Happy With Near-Perfect Performance
Charith Asalanka expressed huge satisfaction with his team. He highlighted Thushara’s new-ball magic and sharp fielding. Especially, he praised catches by Perera and Chameera. Now, he wants Sri Lanka to be the tournament’s best fielding unit.
What This Result Means for Asia Cup 2025
Essentially, Sri Lanka enters the Super Four unbeaten and confident. Conversely, Afghanistan flies home after a valiant but flawed effort. Meanwhile, Bangladesh sneaks through thanks to Sri Lanka’s victory. Therefore, the knockout stage promises even fiercer battles ahead.