In a decisive Group B match of the Asia Cup 2025, Sri Lanka dashed Afghanistan’s hopes, eliminating them from the tournament. This result also propelled Bangladesh into the Super-4 stage. Kusal Mendis, Sri Lanka’s wicketkeeper-batsman, delivered a stellar performance, overshadowing the efforts of Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi. Nabi had played a blistering innings for Afghanistan, but Mendis’s impressive half-century secured a comfortable 6-wicket victory for Sri Lanka. Chasing a target of 170 runs, Sri Lanka reached the target in 18.4 overs, with 4 wickets down. Mendis’s unbeaten 74 runs, scored off 52 balls with 10 fours, proved crucial for Sri Lanka. Kusal Perera contributed 28 runs off 20 balls, including 3 fours. Kamindu Mendis remained not out with 26 runs from 13 balls, hitting 2 sixes. For Afghanistan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad each took a wicket. Earlier, Afghanistan managed to score 169 runs, largely due to Mohammad Nabi’s powerful batting display.
