Afghanistan Knocked Out Of Asia Cup 2025 After Defeat To Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka booked their place in the Super Four of the 2025 Asia Cup after defeating Afghanistan by six wickets at Zayed Stadium on Thursday.

Afghanistan, who elected to bat first after winning the toss, managed 169 for eight in their 20 overs. Mohammad Nabi shone with a blistering 60 from 22 balls, while Rashid Khan contributed 24 from 23 deliveries.

Sri Lanka's bowlers kept control, with Nuwan Thushara delivering the standout performance, taking four wickets for just 18 runs in his four overs. His spell proved decisive in limiting Afghanistan's total.

Chasing 170, Sri Lanka reached the target comfortably in 18.4 overs, closing on 171 for four. Kusal Mendis led the innings with a superb 74 from 52 balls, supported by Kusal Perera's 28 off 20 and Kamindu Mendis's quickfire 26 from 13.

Afghanistan's bowlers struggled to make breakthroughs, with Rashid Khan the most economical, returning 1-23 from four overs. Noor Ahmad, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Nabi each claimed one wicket but were unable to halt Sri Lanka's charge.

With the victory, Sri Lanka maintained a perfect record of three wins from three matches to top Group B. Bangladesh joined them in progressing, while Afghanistan, with just one win, were eliminated.

Kusal Mendis was named player of the match for his decisive innings, underlining Sri Lanka's strong form heading into the Super Four stage.

For Afghanistan, the early exit marks a disappointing end to their campaign, raising questions about batting depth and consistency in high-pressure contests.

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