Sri Lanka defeated Afghanistan by six wickets on Thursday to secure their place in the Super Four of the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, eliminating Afghanistan from the tournament.
Afghanistan, after winning the toss and choosing to bat first, posted 169-8 in their 20 overs at Zayed Cricket Stadium. Veteran allrounder Mohammad Nabi top-scored with a blistering 60 off 22 balls, while Rashid Khan added 24 from 23 deliveries. For Sri Lanka, Nuwan Thushara starred with the ball, taking 4-18 in four overs.
In reply, Sri Lanka chased down the target with eight balls to spare, finishing at 171-4 in 18.4 overs. Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls, supported by Kusal Perera’s 28 off 20. Kamindu Mendis added a quick 26 not out from just 13 deliveries to seal the win.
Afghan bowlers struggled to contain the runs. Rashid Khan was the most economical with 1-23 in his four overs, while Noor Ahmad, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Mohammad Nabi took one wicket each.
The victory means Sri Lanka finished Group B with three wins from three matches, while Afghanistan, with just one win, were knocked out. Bangladesh also advanced to the Super Four alongside Sri Lanka.
Kusal Mendis was named Player of the Match for his match-winning knock.
