Sri Lanka Outlasts Afghanistan in High-Scoring Thriller
In a thrilling high-scoring encounter at Pallekele, Sri Lanka secured a 42-run victory over Afghanistan in the first one-day international, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The win was largely fueled by a record-breaking double century from opener Pathum Nissanka, though Afghanistan staged a valiant fightback led by Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi.
Nissanka Makes History with Maiden Double Century
Nissanka stole the show, smashing his maiden ODI double century in just 139 balls, becoming the 10th player in cricket history and the third-fastest to achieve the feat. He surpassed Sanath Jayasuriya’s record as the highest individual scorer for Sri Lanka in ODIs, finishing unbeaten on 210 runs.
Batting first after Afghanistan’s captain opted to bowl, Sri Lanka amassed a mammoth 381 runs for 3 wickets, with Nissanka and Avishka Fernando (88) providing a solid foundation with a 182-run opening partnership.
Sri Lanka Start Strong, Afghanistan Fight Back
Early dismissals in the Afghan chase seemed to seal Sri Lanka’s victory. However, a remarkable sixth-wicket stand between Omarzai (149*) and Nabi (136) reignited their hopes. The duo combined for 242 runs, the second-highest sixth-wicket partnership in ODI history, both scoring individual centuries.
Madushan Seals the Win After Tense Finish
Despite their valiant effort, Afghanistan ultimately fell short due to Madushan’s crucial wicket of Nabi in his final spell. Afghanistan finished with 339 runs for 6 wickets, falling 42 runs short of the target.
Captain’s Regrets
Afghan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi admitted regretting his decision to bowl first, citing concerns about dew later in the innings. He acknowledged their bowling attack, missing key players like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, struggled in the powerplay overs, allowing Sri Lanka to build a dominant total.
Looking Ahead
With the series lead in hand, Sri Lanka will look to capitalize on their momentum in the remaining two matches. While Afghanistan will need to regroup and address their bowling concerns to level the series.
