Sri Lanka Dominant Victory Against Afghanistan Cricket Team | ODI 2023 | Afg vs SL | Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka:
In a stunning display of skill and precision, Sri Lanka emerged victorious in the final match of their series against the Afghanistan cricket team. Led by the exceptional performance of Dushmantha Chameera, who claimed four wickets, the Sri Lankan bowlers dismantled Afghanistan’s batting lineup. The spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Lahiru Kumara also played vital roles in securing the win. Meanwhile, an explosive fifty by Pathum Nissanka ensured a swift chase for the Sri Lankan team. This victory will undoubtedly boost Sri Lanka’s confidence as they gear up for the upcoming World Cup Qualifier, scheduled to begin on June 19.
Chameera Shines Bright with Four Wickets | ODI 2023 | Afg vs SL | Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka:
Dushmantha Chameera, hailed as Sri Lanka’s key ODI bowler, showcased his prowess with an outstanding performance in the final match against Afghanistan. Making a comeback after a lengthy injury lay-off, Chameera proved his mettle by claiming four wickets for 63 runs. Despite the surface not being particularly bowler-friendly, Chameera utilized his sharp pace and extracted good bounce from the pitch. His ability to generate movement troubled the right-handed Afghan batsmen, leading to numerous edges and boundaries. Chameera’s exceptional form in this series will undoubtedly be a significant boost for Sri Lanka as they prepare for the World Cup Qualifier.
Kumara and Hasaranga Contribute to the Bowling Masterclass | ODI 2023 | Afg vs SL | Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka:
Lahiru Kumara and Wanindu Hasaranga played crucial roles in dismantling Afghanistan’s batting lineup. Kumara, with his impressive pace and movement off the pitch, claimed two vital wickets for just 29 runs. His dismissal of the openers early in the innings set the tone for Sri Lanka’s dominance. Hasaranga, known for his legbreak variations, showcased his talent by taking three wickets for a mere seven runs. His deceptive deliveries accounted for key wickets, including that of Rashid Khan, who was playing his first match of the series. Maheesh Theekshana, another contributor to the bowling masterclass, claimed a wicket as well. Collectively, the Sri Lankan bowlers showcased exceptional skill and restricted Afghanistan to a meager total of 116 runs.
Afghanistan’s Batting Collapse | ODI 2023 | Afg vs SL | Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka:
Afghanistan’s batting lineup endured a disastrous collapse against the relentless Sri Lankan bowling attack. With the top order crumbling under the fiery pace of Lahiru Kumara, Afghanistan found themselves in deep trouble early on. Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi both fell victim to Chameera’s lethal deliveries, caught behind by the wicketkeeper. The collapse continued as Ibrahim Zadran was dismissed by a dream inducker from Kumara, leaving Afghanistan reeling at 48 for 4 in the ninth over. Mohammad Nabi emerged as the highest scorer for Afghanistan with 23 runs, but six of their batters failed to reach double figures. The Sri Lankan bowlers’ exceptional performance ensured a swift victory for their team.
Nissanka’s Explosive Fifty Steers Sri Lanka to Victory | ODI 2023 | Afg vs SL | Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka:
Pathum Nissanka’s blistering innings propelled Sri Lanka towards a resounding victory. The young batsman showcased his attacking prowess by smashing a quickfire fifty off just 34 balls. Nissanka’s aggressive strokeplay included consecutive square boundaries off Fareed Ahmad in the second over. He continued to dominate the Afghan bowlers, hitting sixes and fours at will. Nissanka’s scintillating knock contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s rapid progress in the chase. Although he was dismissed by Gulbadin Naib immediately after the powerplay, Nissanka’s explosive innings had already paved the way for Sri Lanka’s success. Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Mendis then calmly steered the team to victory, with Karunaratne achieving his eighth ODI half-century in the process.
Looking Ahead: World Cup Qualifier Preparation | ODI 2023 | Afg vs SL | Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka:
Sri Lanka’s comprehensive victory in the final match against Afghanistan provides them with a much-needed confidence boost as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup Qualifier. The dominant performances by Chameera, Kumara, and Hasaranga underline the strength and depth of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack. Additionally, the explosive batting display by Pathum Nissanka serves as a positive sign for the team’s batting lineup. With key players hitting their stride and the team brimming with confidence, Sri Lanka aims to carry this momentum forward into the World Cup Qualifier.
