Asia Cup: Sri Lanka eliminate Afghanistan, Bangladesh through to Super 4.
Sri Lanka chased down Afghanistan’s 170-run target with ease at Abu Dhabi, winning by six wickets with eight balls to spare. Kusal Mendis starred with an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls, supported by Charith Asalanka and Kamindu Mendis, guiding the islanders into the Super 4.
Afghanistan had started strongly but lost early wickets to Nuwan Thushara, falling to 45/3 in the powerplay. Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi tried to rebuild, with Nabi smashing 60 off 22 balls, including five sixes — equalling the fastest fifty in Asia Cup history — but it wasn’t enough to set a defendable total of 169/8.
Sri Lanka’s reply began shakily with early losses, but Mendis anchored the innings while the Afghan bowlers leaked runs under pressure. Sharp fielding by Dushmantha Chameera and Kusal Perera further tilted the contest.
The win not only booked Sri Lanka’s place in the Super 4 but also ensured Bangladesh’s qualification, while Afghanistan’s campaign ended in disappointment.
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