Mendis steers SL into Super 4 spot: 2025 Asia Cup No 11 (Abu Dhabi)

Kusal Mendis led the chase as Sri Lanka secured a convincing six-wicket win over Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.

Afghanistan, after stumbling to 114 for 7, were rescued by a breathtaking late assault from Mohammad Nabi, who smashed 60 off just 22 balls with five sixes in one over to lift his side to a competitive 169 for 8.

Nuwan Thushara’s four-wicket burst was crucial in stalling Afghanistan’s innings before Nabi’s counterattack. In reply, Sri Lanka steadied themselves after early losses through a composed unbeaten 74 from Mendis, well supported by Kusal Perera’s brisk 28 and Kamindu Mendis’ 26* off 13 balls.

Their calculated chase was completed in 18.4 overs, securing Sri Lanka’s spot in the Super Four alongside Bangladesh, while Afghanistan were knocked out of the tournament.

Sri Lanka 171 for 4 (Kusal 74*, Perera 28, Omarzai 1-10) beat Afghanistan 169 for 8 (Nabi 60, Rashid 24, Ibrahim 24, Thushara 4-18) by six wickets.

Sept 2025.