Abu Dhabi, September 19 (HS): Sri Lanka booked their place in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four after comfortably defeating Afghanistan by six wickets in Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium. This result also ensured Bangladesh’s progression and brought Afghanistan’s campaign to an abrupt end.

Batting first, Afghanistan were powered by a sensational 22-ball 60 from veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, alongside contributions from Rashid Khan (24 runs) and Ibrahim Zadran (24 runs), setting a competitive total of 169/8 in 20 overs. Sri Lanka’s pace spearhead Nuwan Thushara delivered an exemplary spell, claiming four wickets for just 18 runs in his four overs. Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, and Dasun Shanaka picked up a wicket each.

In response, Sri Lanka chased down the target in 18.4 overs for the loss of four wickets. Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a classy unbeaten 74 off 52 balls, combining well with Kusal Perera (28 runs) and Kamindu Mendis (26 not out). Afghanistan’s bowling struggled to make inroads, with Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, and Noor Ahmad picking up a wicket apiece, while Rashid Khan went wicketless despite conceding just 23 runs in his spell.

With this win, the final Super Four lineup was decided: India and Pakistan from Group A, and Sri Lanka and Bangladesh from Group B, now advance to the next phase of the tournament.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar