Afghanistan knocked out as Sri Lanka top Group B in Asia Cup 2025
Kusal Mendis stars in Sri Lanka’s win, Bangladesh also through
ABU DHABI – Sri Lanka produced a clinical performance to beat Afghanistan by six wickets in Abu Dhabi, confirming their progress to the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four stage.
The result ended Afghanistan’s campaign and paved the way for Bangladesh to advance as the second qualifier from Group B.
Afghanistan, batting first, stumbled early after winning the toss. Reduced to 79 for 6 by the 13th over, they were rescued by a sensational late assault from Mohammad Nabi, who smashed 60 off just 22 deliveries. His knock, which included five sixes in the final over, lifted Afghanistan to 169 for 8 in their 20 overs.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers had set the tone earlier, with left-arm pacer Nuwan Thushara claiming 4 for 18 to dismantle the Afghan top order. Dushmantha Chameera added pace and pressure, while Wanindu Hasaranga kept control through the middle overs.
In response, Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka cheaply but steadied through Kusal Mendis, who anchored the innings with an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls. Kusal Perera contributed 28, while Kamindu Mendis provided the finishing touch with 26 not out off 13 balls. The target was chased down in 18.4 overs, ensuring Sri Lanka’s unbeaten run in the group stage.
Sri Lanka hold their nerves and go over the line! ✌️
— AsianCricketCouncil (@ACCMedia1) September 18, 2025
???? in their veins & composure in their demeanor equates to thrilling win and ???????? + ???????? advancing to the Super 4!#SLvAFG #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 #ACC pic.twitter.com/E91eUJ7Hga
Squads
Sri Lanka Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara
Afghanistan Playing XI: Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
With this victory, Sri Lanka completed a clean sweep in Group B, finishing with three wins from three matches. Afghanistan, despite Nabi’s brilliance, were eliminated. Bangladesh advanced as the other team from the group, benefiting from Sri Lanka’s dominance.
Sri Lanka’s balance of batting stability and incisive bowling proved decisive, while Afghanistan’s exit highlighted their over-reliance on individual performances. The result sets up an exciting Super Four stage, with Sri Lanka heading in on a wave of confidence.