Abu Dhabi, September 18, 2025— In a pivotal Group B match of the T20 Asia Cup 2025 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Afghanistan elected to bat first and posted 169/8 in their 20 overs, putting up a competitive total for Sri Lanka to chase. Business Standard+2Outlook India+2
Context and Stakes
Both Sri Lanka and Afghanistan entered this match with much at stake, eyeing qualification to the Super Fours. Sri Lanka came into the game unbeaten in the tournament thus far, while Afghanistan faced pressure to win to stay in contention alongside Bangladesh. Outlook India+1
Afghanistan’s Innings: Highlights and Heroics
The standout performance came from Mohammad Nabi, who hammered a blazing 60 off just 22 balls, including 3 sixes and 6 fours, at a strike rate of over 270. His late onslaught gave Afghanistan the push they needed after middling starts. Business Standard+2Outlook India+2
Early wickets fell regularly for Afghanistan, with Sri Lankan bowlers Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera among those chipping in. Thushara grabbed four wickets, giving up only 18 runs and maintaining tight pressure. Business Standard
Though Rashid Khan contributed with a steady 24 off 23 balls, the Afghans lost wickets at regular intervals and were under threat of being bowled out cheaply if not for Nabi’s counterattack. Business Standard
Sri Lanka’s Task & Response
Sri Lanka’s bowling effort was disciplined, especially in the powerplay and middle overs, keeping Afghanistan from piling up an exceedingly large total. Outlook India+1
However, the target of 170 is challenging under these conditions, especially with Sri Lanka’s batters needing to match aggression and avoid collapses. The pressure is on Charith Asalanka’s side to deliver with the bat.
Sri Lankan players, while not quoted yet on the broadcasted updates, are expected to speak about handling the chase with composure and building partnerships.
What Is Confirmed vs. What Is Alleged
Confirmed: Afghanistan’s 169/8, Nabi’s explosive 60, Sri Lanka’s strong bowling from Thushara and Chameera. Business Standard+2Outlook India+2
Alleged (or yet to be seen): How Sri Lanka’s top-order will respond under pressure of must-win (or must-not-lose big) situation; the pitch behaviour under lights in the second innings; whether Sri Lanka can close the match without middle-order collapse.
Conclusion & What’s Next
Sri Lanka now needs a calculated yet aggressive chase to secure their Super Fours spot and avoid being overtaken by Bangladesh. If they fall short, Afghanistan will remain in contention and could overturn the standings depending on net run rates.
Both teams will regroup during the break. Key Sri Lankan batters like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Charith Asalanka will be under the microscope. For Afghanistan, capitalizing on this momentum—particularly through Nabi—could prove decisive.
In the coming hours we expect:
Sri Lanka to open with a strong batting lineup, possibly taking fewer risks early.
Tactical bowling changes from Afghanistan aiming to pick early wickets.
Intense fielding to save runs; slips and boundary-saving likely crucial.
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