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Tag: SLvAFG

  • ICC bans Sri Lankan captain Wanindu Hasaranga for two matches; Rahmanullah Gurbaz fined 15% of match fee

    ICC bans Sri Lankan captain Wanindu Hasaranga for two matches; Rahmanullah Gurbaz fined 15% of match fee

    The world of cricket recently found itself in the midst of heated discussions as an animated confrontation unfolded between Sri Lankan skipper Wanindu Hasaranga and umpire Lyndon Hanibal during the third and final T20I of the series against Afghanistan at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on February 21. The aftermath of this confrontation has now resulted in Hasaranga facing a two-match suspension.

    What led to Wanindu Hasaranga being penalized?

    The controversial incident that has led to Hasaranga being penalized unfolded when the Sri Lankan skipper confronted umpire Lyndon during the third T20I to question a decision regarding a high full toss that was not called a no-ball. The animated exchange caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide, leading to the International Cricket Council (ICC) taking swift action against Hasaranga.

    Hasaranga’s misconduct and suspension

    Following the incident, the ICC reviewed Hasaranga’s actions and found him in breach of the ICC Code of Conduct. As a result, the Sri Lankan T20I captain was fined 50 percent of his match fee and accumulated three demerit points. Importantly, this latest breach pushed Hasaranga’s total demerit points to five within a 24-month period, triggering an automatic two-match suspension.

    Also READ: Yashasvi Jaiswal makes history in Ranchi Test; joins Sunil Gavaskar, Virat Kohli in an elite club

    Consequences for Sri Lanka

    With the two-match suspension, Hasaranga is set to miss Sri Lanka’s first two T20Is against Bangladesh next month. The absence of their captain will undoubtedly pose a challenge for the Sri Lankan team, impacting their strategy and team dynamics in the upcoming series.

    Rahmanullah Gurbaz fined 15% of match fee

    In addition to Hasaranga, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz also faced disciplinary action for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the same match. Gurbaz was fined 15 percent of his match fee for changing the grip of his bat on the field of play, despite repeated warnings from match officials not to do so. This marked Gurbaz’s second offence within a 24-month period, resulting in the addition of one demerit point to his record, bringing his cumulative demerit points to two.

    Also READ: Could a Decline Australia Leave the Door Open for an England Ashes Win in 2025?

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  • SL vs AFG: Wanindu Hasaranga expresses frustration as umpire Lyndon Hannibal overlooks a crucial no-ball in the Dambulla T20I

    SL vs AFG: Wanindu Hasaranga expresses frustration as umpire Lyndon Hannibal overlooks a crucial no-ball in the Dambulla T20I

    Sri Lanka‘s newly appointed T20I captain, Wanindu Hasaranga, expressed his frustration and disappointment following a controversial non-no-ball call made by umpire Lyndon Hannibal during the third T20I against Afghanistan at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on Wednesday (February 21).

    Dramatic turn in the last over in 3rd T20I

    Despite having already secured the T20I series, Sri Lanka faced a challenging chase, requiring 210 runs to win. With 19 needed off the last over, Sri Lanka appeared poised for victory as Kamindu Mendis struck two fours in the first three balls. However, the turning point came on the fourth delivery when a high full toss by Wafadar Momand above the waist height of Mendis was deemed legal by Hannibal, who was positioned at square leg.

    Umpiring controversy shadows Sri Lanka’s finish

    Mendis, despite his request for a review, couldn’t avail it due to the latest ICC playing conditions, which restrict reviews for anything other than potential dismissals. Although Mendis was outside his crease, his crouched position suggested that the ball would have still cleared his waist even if played from the crease. The subsequent delivery was called a wide, leaving Sri Lanka needing 10 off the last two balls. Nevertheless, a dot on the penultimate delivery and a last-ball six reduced the margin of defeat as Sri Lanka finished three runs short at 206/6.

    Also READ: Virat Kohli or Babar Azam? Mohammad Amir & Shaheen Afridi name the player with best cover drive

    Wanindu Hasaranga voices frustration against Umpire

    Hasaranga, visibly upset by Hannibal’s decision, criticized the umpiring error, emphasizing that such mistakes should not happen at the international level. Additionally, Hasaranga expressed dissatisfaction with the review system, suggesting that the third umpire should be able to check all types of no-balls, not just the front-foot ones.

    “That kind of thing shouldn’t happen in an international match. If it had been close [to waist height], that’s not a problem. But a ball that’s going so high… it would have hit the batsman’s head if it had gone a little higher. If you can’t see that, that umpire isn’t suited to international cricket. It would be much better if he did another job,” Hasaranga said.

    “There was a situation where you could review those calls before, but the ICC has got rid of that. Our batsmen tried to review that. If the third umpire is able to check the front-foot no-ball, he should check this kind of no-ball as well. There’s no reason why they can’t. They didn’t do even that, so I’m not sure what was going on in his (the square-leg umpire’s) mind at the time,” the 26-year-old concluded.

    Also READ: Bangladesh names T20I and ODI squads for Sri Lanka series; Shakib al Hasan left out after Najmul Hossain Shanto takes over as new skipper

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  • Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, T20I series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, T20I series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    The excitement is palpable as Sri Lanka and Afghanistan gear up to clash in a thrilling T20 International (T20I) series, commencing on February 17 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla. With all matches scheduled to be held at this iconic venue, cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the showdown between these two formidable teams.

    Ace spinner Wanindu Hasaranga will be leading the Islanders in the shortest format. On the opposing side, Afghanistan will be under the leadership of Ibrahim Zadran, who is poised to steer his team to success in the T20I series.

    The stage is set for a riveting contest between these two cricketing powerhouses, following their recent encounters in the One Day International (ODI) series. Sri Lanka emerged triumphant in the ODI series, delivering a dominant performance that culminated in a clean sweep against their Afghan counterparts.

    Buoyed by their success in the ODI arena, Sri Lanka are determined to maintain their winning momentum and replicate their stellar performance in the upcoming T20I matches. Meanwhile, Afghanistan are eager to stage a comeback and commence the T20I series with a positive start.

    Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka, 2024, T20I series Fixture, Venue and Timing:

    • February 17: First T20I at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla 07:00 pm IST/ 01:30 pm GMT/ 07:00 pm local
    • February 19: Second T20I at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla 07:00 pm IST/ 01:30 pm GMT/ 07:00 pm local
    • February 21: Third T20I at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla 07:00 pm IST/ 01:30 pm GMT/ 07:00 pm local

    Also READ: IND vs ENG – R Ashwin withdraws from Rajkot Test; rushes home to be with his mother

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Dilshan Madushanka, Akila Dananjaya, Binura Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana

    Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c), Najibullah Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Wafadar Momand, Mohammad Ishaq

    Broadcast and Live streaming details:

    • India: Fancode, Sony Liv, Sony Sports 5
    • Sri Lanka: Ten Cricket, Siyatha TV, Official You Tube Channel of SLC
    • Afghanistan: Ariana TVN, RTA Sports
    • UK: TNT Sports 4

    Also READ: Fastest to 500 Test wickets in terms of balls; Ravichandran Ashwin at No. 2

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  • Twitter reactions: Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga’s heroics propel Sri Lanka to a series-clinching victory over Afghanistan in the 2nd ODI

    Twitter reactions: Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga’s heroics propel Sri Lanka to a series-clinching victory over Afghanistan in the 2nd ODI

    Sri Lanka asserted their supremacy, sealing the three-match series against Afghanistan with an authoritative 155 runs win in the second ODI at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on February 11, Sunday. The victory was shaped by a combination of Charith Asalanka‘s impactful batting and Wanindu Hasaranga‘s brilliant bowling, showcasing Sri Lanka’s prowess in all facets of the game.

    Solid partnerships lay the foundation for Sri Lanka’s innings

    The Sri Lankan innings unfolded with a dynamic mix of solid partnerships and individual brilliance. Pathum Nissanka set the tone with a brisk 18 off 17 balls, laying the foundation for the middle order. Despite Avishka Fernando‘s failure with the bat Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a sturdy 61, and Sadeera Samarawickrama contributed a valuable 52.

    Charith Asalanka’s remarkable batting

    However, the standout performance came from Charith Asalanka, falling agonizingly short of a century with a dazzling 97 off 74 balls. His innings injected vitality and flair, featuring a blend of classical shots and aggressive strokeplay, including 9 fours and 2 sixes. Janith Liyanage added a significant half-century and Hasaranga provided late-order impetus with 14 runs that took Sri Lanka score to 308/6. Afghanistan’s bowling struggled to contain the onslaught, with Azmatullah Omarzai being the most successful bowler, picking three wickets.

    Afghanistan’s uphill battle and Wanindu Hasaranga’s decisive spell

    Chasing a challenging target of 309, Afghanistan faced a daunting task against the formidable Sri Lankan bowling attack. Despite Ibrahim Zadran‘s resilience with a hard-fought 54 and Rahmat Shah‘s commendable 63, Sri Lanka’s bowlers were relentless. Despite Afghanistan being 143/2 at one stage, Hasaranga’s dangerous spell turned the tide decisively in Sri Lanka’s favour.

    Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, ODI series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    His variations, control, and ability to pick up wickets at crucial junctures dismantled the Afghan middle order. Hasaranga’s final figures of 4 wickets for 27 runs in 6.5 overs underscored his match-winning impact. Dilshan Madushanka and Asitha Fernando scalped 2 wickets eac, and Pramod Madushan chipped in with a wicket. The Sri Lankan bowlers dismantled the Afghan batting order with precision, restricting them to 153/10 in 33.5 overs.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka



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  • Twitter reactions: Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi centuries in vain as Pathum Nissanka’s double ton guides Sri Lanka to victory over Afghanistan in the 1st ODI

    Twitter reactions: Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi centuries in vain as Pathum Nissanka’s double ton guides Sri Lanka to victory over Afghanistan in the 1st ODI

    In a riveting encounter at the Pallekele International Stadium, Sri Lanka showcased a batting spectacle on the back of Pathum Nissanka‘s spectacular double ton, overshadowing Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi‘s gritty centuries, to secure a commanding victory over Afghanistan by 42 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series.

    Sri Lanka’s dominant display

    The Sri Lankan innings unfolded as a masterclass in batting supremacy, spearheaded by Nissanka’s monumental double century. Nissanka’s breathtaking innings of 210 runs off 139 balls, adorned with 20 fours and 8 sixes, illuminated the stadium with sheer brilliance. Avishka Fernando‘s contribution of a solid 88 runs laid the foundation for a formidable total. Despite facing a couple of early setbacks, Sadeera Samarawickrama‘s aggressive 45 ensured Sri Lanka posted an imposing 381/3 in their alloted 50 overs.

    Pathum Nissanka’s historic achievement

    Nissanka’s double century not only anchored the Sri Lankan innings but also etched his name in the record books as the first Sri Lankan to achieve this milestone in ODIs. His innings was a perfect blend of elegance and power, dismantling the Afghan bowling attack with consummate ease.

    Afghanistan’s struggle in bowling

    The Afghanistan bowlers found it challenging to contain the Sri Lankan batters, with Fareed Malik being the only successful bowler, picking two wickets. The rest of the bowling unit, including Fazalhaq Farooqi, Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib, went wicketless, conceding significant runs.

    Afghanistan’s dismal start and fight from Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi

    In pursuit of a daunting target, Afghanistan faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 55/5 at one stage. However, a remarkable fightback ensued, spearheaded by Omarzai and Nabi. Omarzai played a sensational innings, scoring 149 runs off 115 balls, complemented by Nabi’s gritty 136 off 130 balls. The duo stitched a remarkable 242-run partnership for the sixth wicket, bringing Afghanistan back into the contest.

    Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, ODI series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Sri Lanka’s bowling resilience

    Despite the Omarzai-Nabi partnership, Sri Lanka’s bowlers displayed resilience. Pramod Madushan was exceptional, claiming four crucial wickets for 75 runs. Dushmantha Chameera contributed with two wickets, ensuring the required run rate kept escalating for Afghanistan. In the end, Afghanistan fell short of the target, finishing at 339/6 in 50 overs.

    Player of the Match

    Nissanka’s historic double century rightfully earned him the Player of the Match accolade, steering Sri Lanka to a memorable victory. His exceptional innings showcased the class and talent that will be etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts. The series promises more thrilling encounters as both teams gear up for the subsequent ODIs

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka</h3



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  • SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    Following the one-off test match, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are set to engage in a three-game ODI series, commencing this Friday at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

    Kusal Mendis will take charge as the captain of the Sri Lankan side, while Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the Afghan side. Riding the momentum from their triumph in the solitary Test match, Sri Lanka will aim to kick off the 50-over series with a victory. Meanwhile, Afghanistan, returning to the ODI format for the first time since the World Cup 2023 , will be eager to put up a strong fight against the hosts.

    Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 1st ODI:

    • Date and Time: February 9, 2024, 02:30 pm local time/ 10:00 am GMT/ 02:30 pm IST
    • Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

    Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch report:

    The Pallekele Cricket Stadium is home to a batting-friendly pitch, well-known for its favorable conditions for batters. This surface doesn’t offer significant support to fast bowlers, creating an enticing setting for batters to showcase their skills and enjoy fruitful innings. Once batters find their groove and get accustomed to the conditions, they can take advantage of numerous opportunities to accumulate substantial runs. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to evolve, developing additional grip that plays into the hands of spin bowlers. Consequently, winning the toss often prompts captains to choose batting first, aiming to exploit the favorable conditions that the Pallekele pitch offers throughout the fixture.

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicketkeepers: Kusal Mendis, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
    • Batters: Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ibrahim Zadran, Pathum Nissanka
    • All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dunith Wellalage
    • Bowlers: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Maheesh Theekshana

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

    • Choice 1: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Azmatullah Omarzai (vc)
    • Choice 2: Kusal Mendis (c), Mohammad Nabi (vc)

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Team for today’s match (Feb 9, 9:00 am GMT)

    SL vs AFG, Dream11 Team (Image Source: Screenshot Dream11)

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan, Sahan Arachchige, Akila Dananjaya, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Shevon Daniel

    Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran, Farid Ahmad

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Sri Lanka’s best XI for ODI series against Afghanistan

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  • Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, One-off Test: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, One-off Test: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Sri Lanka are set to host Afghanistan for a multiformat series that will include one-off Test match, followed by three ODIs and as many T20Is starting from February 2. The tour begins with a one-off Test game, marking Afghanistan’s first appearance in red-ball cricket against Sri Lanka. The fixture will take place at Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo. However, this match is not a part of the World Championship Cycle (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

    Afghanistan squad and absence of Rashid Khan

    Afghanistan’s Test squad boasts familiar faces in the batting lineup, with the seasoned Hashmatullah Shahidi leading the side, accompanied by Ibrahim Zadran, Abdul Malik and Rahmat Shah. Notably, the absence of key player Rashid Khan, still recovering from back surgery, is a setback. The leg-spinner Qais Ahmed is set to fill the void, joined by uncapped talents like Noor Ali Zadran, Zia-ur-Rehman, Mohammad Ishaq and the emerging 18-year-old right-arm medium-pacer Naveed Zadran.

    Also READ: Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott provides update regarding Rashid Khan’s official comeback

    Leadership transition in Sri Lanka: Dhananjaya de Silva takes charge

    In a significant development, Sri Lanka have entrusted the role of Test captaincy to the versatile all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva, who steps in for Dimuth Karunaratne. This appointment makes him the 18th player from Sri Lanka to lead in Tests, signifying a new chapter in his cricketing journey.

    Dynamic blend of youth and experience

    The team comprises seasoned campaigners like Angelo Matthews, Dinesh Chandimal and Dimuth Karunaratne, while Kushal Mendis assumes the role of deputy under De Silva’s captaincy. The squad introduces three uncapped players: wicketkeeper-batter Lahiru Udara, along with pacers Chamika Gunasekara and Milan Rathnayake. In addition to the debutant seamers, the squad features the experienced trio of Vishwa Fernando, Kasun Rajitha and Asitha Fernando, promising a dynamic blend of youth and experience in Sri Lanka’s red-ball cricket lineup.

    Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka, 2024, One-off Test Fixture, Venue and Timing:

    • February 2 to 6: Only Test at Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), Colombo 10:00 am IST/ 04:30 am GMT/ 10:00 am local

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kusal Mendis (vc), Dimuth Karunaratne, Nishan Madushka, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Sadeera Samarawickrema, Ramesh Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Lahiru Udara, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Kasun Rajitha,Vishwa Fernando, Chamika Gunasekara, Milan Ratnayake

    Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Ikram Alikhail (wk), Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Noor Ali Zadran, Abdul Malik, Baheer Shah, Nasir Jamal, Qais Ahmad, Zahir Khan, Zia Ur Rehman Akbar, Yamin Ahmadzai, Nijat Masoud, Mohammad Saleem Safi and Naveed Zadran

    Broadcast and Live streaming details:

    • India: Fancode, Sony Liv, Sony Sports 5
    • Sri Lanka: Ten Cricket, Siyatha TV
    • Afghanistan: Ariana TVN, RTA Sports
    • UK: TNT Sports 4

    Also READ: Team India’s new recruit Sarfaraz Khan reveals his favourite cricketer

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  • Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2023, ODIs: Broadcast, Live streaming details – When and Where to watch in India, Sri Lanka & other countries

    Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2023, ODIs: Broadcast, Live streaming details – When and Where to watch in India, Sri Lanka & other countries

    Sri Lanka are all set to host Afghanistan for the upcoming three-match One-Day International (ODI) series, starting June 02 at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota.

    Notably, Sri Lanka’s performance in ODI matches can be considered average at the moment as the Dasun Shanaka-led team recently suffered a 2-0 defeat in a three-match ODI series against New Zealand. They also faced defeats in the two-match Test leg and the three-match T20I series against the Black Caps. Additionally, in January 2023, Sri Lanka were defeated 3-0 by India in a three-match ODI battle.

    On the other hand, Afghanistan’s most recent ODI series was against Sri Lanka in November 2022, where they drew the series 1-1. They had a successful outing against Zimbabwe, winning the three-match ODI series 3-0 in June 2022. In March 2023, the Afghan side displayed their strength by defeating Pakistan 2-1 in a three-match T20I series, securing their first-ever victory against their neighboring country in the limited-overs format.

    Key performers

    Both Sri Lanka and Afghanistan possess several match-winners within their respective squads. Recently, star batter Dimuth Karunaratne has been included in Sri Lanka’s squad. The 35-year-old is known for his prowess in red-ball cricket and has the potential to adapt his skills to the white-ball format as well.

    Similarly, Matheesha Pathirana‘s inclusion in the squad is another significant development as the 20-year-old has earned his call-up after delivering an outstanding performance for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. Having secured his first title in the prestigious league, Pathirana will be eager to make a strong impact in the upcoming series against Afghanistan.

    Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the wicketkeeper-batsman, will be a player to watch out for from Afghanistan. He impressed with his performances for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2023. Another player to keep an eye on is the 18-year-old Noor Ahmad, who has made his mark at the international level. Noor played a significant role in the IPL 2023 for the Gujarat Titans (GT), helping them reach the finals.

    Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan ODI series schedule:

    • First ODI – June 02 at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, 10 AM IST/04:30 AM GMT
    • Second ODI – June 04 at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, 10 AM IST/04:30 AM GMT
    • Third ODI – June 07 at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, 10 AM IST/04:30 AM GMT

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (vc & wk), Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Chamika Karunaratne, Dushan Hemantha, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Dushmantha Chameera, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana

    Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhail (wk), Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Mujib ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Abdul Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Farid Ahmad Malik.
    Reserves: Gulbadin Naib, Shahidullah Kamal, Yamin Ahmadzai, Zia ur Rahman Akbar

    Broadcast and Streaming details:

    • India: Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV
    • Sri Lanka: Siyatha TV, Sri Lanka Cricket YouTube channel and SLBC
    • Rest of the World including Afghanistan: ICC.tv.

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  • Twitter reactions: Charith Asalanka stars in Sri Lanka’s series-levelling win over Afghanistan

    Twitter reactions: Charith Asalanka stars in Sri Lanka’s series-levelling win over Afghanistan

    In the third and final ODI between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, the hosts came up on top in a thrilling contest to register a memorable victory and level the series.

    Chasing 314, Sri Lanka got off to a good start with openers Pathum Nissanka (35) and Kusal Mendis (67) adding over a hundred runs for the first wicket, but they played slowly. The spin attack of Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan started creating problems, with Rashid, in particular, destroying the middle order. The spin duo reduced Sri Lanka to 164/4 in 30.3 overs.

    Then Charith Asalanka and captain Dasun Shanaka calmed things down by adding a crucial partnership of 79 runs for the fifth wicket. However, Rashid again brought back Afghanistan by removing Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga as the Islanders were reeling at 249/6 after 43.1 overs, with Asalanka soldiering on with a cramp.

    However, an unlikely hero emerged in the form of youngster Dunith Wellalage, who accelerated the run flow by smashing a few boundaries when Sri Lanka looked out of the chase. Asalanka, on the other hand, continued chipping the runs and took Sri Lanka over the finish line with a winning six over deep mid-wicket, playing a splendid knock of 83 unbeaten off 72 balls.

    Earlier, Ibrahim Zadran, who had smashed a tremendous hundred in the series opener, once again shined with the bat and hit another century. The Afghan opener scored 162 off 138 balls, including 15 fours and 4 sixes, as the tourists ended up reaching 313/8 in their allotted 50 overs.

    “Really happy with this performance. We were behind this chase, but we came out of it strong. I believe in my captain, he’s a magnificent player, and his 40-odd runs were very helpful. I believed all the way, I know Wella (Wellalage) is a good player. The leg is better now, but at some stages, I thought if I must come out. Glad I fought through it,” said Asalanka after the match.

    Here is how Twitter reacted:



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