Dambulla, Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka edged past Afghanistan by a nail-biting margin of four runs in the first T20 International of their three-match series on Saturday, February 17th, 2024. The match, held at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, saw both teams display remarkable grit and determination, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats until the very last delivery.
Sri Lanka Bats First, Sets Modest Target:
Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a score of 160 runs in their allotted 20 overs. Captain Dasun Shanaka top-scored with 59, while Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with a valuable 27. Afghanistan’s bowling attack, led by Fazalhaq Farooqi and Rashid Khan, kept the pressure on the Sri Lankan batsmen, restricting them to a manageable total.
Afghanistan’s Chase Falls Short:
In reply, Afghanistan started their chase confidently with openers Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz putting on a 66-run partnership. However, the middle order faltered, and Afghanistan found themselves needing 13 runs from the last over with just two wickets remaining. Despite a valiant effort from Najibullah Zadran, they fell short by four runs, handing Sri Lanka a narrow victory.
Pathirana Shines, Earns Player of the Match:
Young Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana was the hero for the hosts, taking three crucial wickets in the final over to seal the win. His fiery pace and accurate bowling proved decisive in the tense encounter, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Series Continues:
With this win, Sri Lanka has taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20 series. The second match will be played at the same venue on Monday, February 19th, 2024.
