Sri Lanka performed brilliantly in the second ODI against Afghanistan, registering a spectacular 155-run win and clinching the series with one game to spare. Read on for a detailed recap of the match, including key performances and highlights.
Sri Lanka’s batting ability and disciplined bowling overpowered Afghanistan in the second ODI played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Chasing a mammoth target of 308 runs set by the hosts, Afghanistan were all out for 153 runs, leading Sri Lanka to an impressive 155-run win and clinching the series with one match to spare.
Sri Lanka’s explosive batting:
- Openers Kusal Mendis (87) and Pathum Nissanka (58) laid a strong foundation by making a partnership of 122 runs.
- Charith Asalanka (96) took charge with a fluent innings and narrowly missed out on scoring a century.
Dhananjay de Silva (41) and Wanindu Hasaranga (37) made valuable contributions in the middle order. - Sri Lanka ended their innings on a strong score of 308/6, their highest score against Afghanistan in ODIs.
Conflicts of Afghanistan:
- The chase got off to a poor start with Rahmanullah Gurbaz getting out cheaply.
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (58) and Najibullah Zadran (30) put up some resistance but could not build a significant partnership.
- Wanindu Hasaranga (4/33) and Chamika Karunaratne (3/32) were the best bowlers for Sri Lanka, who dismantled the Afghan batting line-up.
- Afghanistan were eventually all out for 153, falling well short of the target.
key takeaways:
- Sri Lanka’s batting displayed impressive depth and consistency, with several players contributing valuable scores.
- The bowlers maintained excellent control and executed their plans effectively, putting constant pressure on the Afghan batsmen.
- This convincing win gave Sri Lanka a crucial series win and boosted their confidence ahead of the third and final ODI.
looking ahead:
- The third and final ODI will be played on February 17 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium.
- Although the series has already been decided, both the teams will be aiming to end the tour with a win.
Sri Lanka’s impressive performance in the second ODI shows their potential and sets them up for a thrilling series finale against Afghanistan.