Afghanistan has been knocked out of the ongoing T20 World Cup after a defeat against Sri Lanka. The Lankans hold the chances for a semifinal spot, however, they need to win the next match and rely on others’ results.
Opting to bat first at the Gabba, Afghanistan managed 144/8 after allotted 20 overs. Openers yielded a good start, adding 42 from the Powerplay. Gurbaz scored 28 runs while his opening partner Usman Ghani scored 27. Wanindu Hasaranga grabbed three scalps and conceded just 13 from his spell. Lahiru Kumara also pocketed a couple of wickets.
Chasing an average target of 145, Dhananjaya de Silva’s half-century inspired Sri Lanka to meet the target with nine balls spare, losing four wickets. Silva remained unbeaten for 66 from 42 balls smashing six fours and a couple of sixes. Kusal Mendis and Asalanka assisted 25 and 19 runs respectively. Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahaman pocketed a couple of wickets each.
Hasaranga was adjudged as player of the match for his terrific spell.
