Sri Lanka secured a spot in the Asia Cup Super Four stage after defeating Afghanistan by six wickets, a result that also eliminated their opponents.
Opener Kusal Mendis guided the chase with a composed 74 off 52 balls, ensuring Sri Lanka’s qualification. The win also confirmed Bangladesh’s place in the next round, joining Group A qualifiers India and Pakistan.
Afghanistan had earlier recovered from 79-6 in the 13th over, thanks to a blistering knock from Mohammad Nabi, who smashed 60 off 22 balls, including five consecutive sixes off Dunith Wellalage’s final over. Despite being run out off the last ball, Nabi helped Afghanistan post 169-8, with Nuwan Thushara starring for Sri Lanka by taking 4-18.
Sri Lanka, needing only 101 runs to qualify on net run rate, chased down the target with eight balls to spare. Kamindu Mendis added a quickfire 13-ball cameo, striking two sixes to seal the win.
The group stage wraps up with India facing already-eliminated Oman on Friday. Sri Lanka will open the Super Four against Bangladesh on Saturday, followed by the high-profile India–Pakistan clash in Dubai on Sunday. The tournament final is scheduled for 28th of September.
