Afghanistan's Win Over Sri Lanka in ICC ODI World Cup 2023
In a thrilling clash between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, both teams had their sights set on the semi-finals after defeating higher-ranked opponents in previous matches. However, it was Afghanistan who emerged victorious, clinching a seven-wicket win in Pune and earning two crucial points in the ICC Men's ODI World Cup.
Afghanistan's last encounter with Sri Lanka, just a month ago at the Asia Cup, ended in a heartbreaking two-run defeat. This time, they left nothing to chance with a clinical performance. Opting to field first, Afghanistan bowled out Sri Lanka for 241 runs in 49.3 overs. With the bat, they displayed composure to finish at 242/3 in 45.2 overs.
This result propelled Afghanistan to the fifth position on the World Cup table, thanks to their previous victories against England and Pakistan. In contrast, Sri Lanka, which had recently won against the Netherlands and England following a hat-trick of defeats, slipped to the sixth spot.
Afghanistan's batting displayed maturity and resilience, much like in their previous match against Pakistan. Despite losing their in-form opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz early, Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah contributed to a 73-run partnership. After Zadran's dismissal, Rahmat and Hashmatullah Shahidi built a 58-run stand. When Rahmat fell in the 28th over, Afghanistan still needed 111 runs to win, but Shahidi and Azmatullah Omarzai held their nerve and added an unbeaten partnership to secure the victory.
It was another remarkable chase and a testament to Afghanistan's confidence, courage, and skill in executing their plans.
Sri Lanka's batting, on the other hand, failed to deliver in favorable conditions. The Pune pitch, known for its high-scoring matches, proved to be less of a challenge than expected. Afghanistan's bowlers, especially Fazalhaq Farooqi with 4/34, took control of the situation. Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan also made key contributions.
Sri Lanka's batsmen, however, couldn't capitalize on their starts, with Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Sadeera Samarawickrama all falling at critical moments. Their lack of application and intent at the crease ultimately led to a below-par total.
In the end, Sri Lanka's uninspired performance with just two sixes in their innings and multiple missed opportunities resulted in a defeat that left their World Cup campaign hanging by a thread.
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