Srilanka win by 2 runs, qualify for Super 4s

Lahore, The Gulf Observer: Sri Lanka defeated Afghanistan by 2 runs to end their hopes of qualifying for the Asia Cup Super 4 stage on Tuesday.

Afghanistan, who needed to chase a target of 292 in 37.1 overs, fought hard but were bowled out for 289 in 37.4 overs despite fifties from Mohammad Nabi (65) and Hashmatullah Shahidi (59). Kasun Rajitha took four wickets for Sri Lanka.

Earlier in the first innings, Sri Lanka posted a total of 291 for eight after Kusal Mendis top scored with 92. The other Sri Lanka batters in Pathum Nissanka (41), Dimuth Karunaratne (32), Charith Asalanka (36) and Dunith Wellalage (33 not out) made vital contributions. For Afghanistan, Gulbadin Naib returned figures of 4/60 while Rashid Khan picked up two wickets.