By Himadullah Sohoo 
Nabi fireworks light up Abu Dhabi
Afghanistan elected to bat first at the Zayed Cricket Stadium but were rocked early as Nuwan Thushara’s 4/18 sliced through the top order. His sharp angles and variation reduced Afghanistan to 79/6, leaving them in danger of folding cheaply.
Then came Mohammad Nabi, and the contest shifted dramatically. The veteran all-rounder smashed an extraordinary 60 off just 22 balls, with five sixes coming in the final over bowled by Dunith Wellalage. Alongside Rashid Khan’s handy 24, Nabi ensured Afghanistan finished with 169/8—a total far healthier than what seemed possible after the Powerplay collapse.
Mendis holds the chase together
Sri Lanka’s reply was built around Kusal Mendis, who showcased class and composure. The wicketkeeper-batter carved an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls, anchoring the innings with fluent sweeps and crisp drives against Afghanistan’s spin attack.
Though wickets fell at intervals—Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, and Charith Asalanka all dismissed in pursuit of quick runs—Mendis stayed calm. His partnerships of 22, 25, 45, 27, and an unbroken 52 with Kamindu Mendis (26 off 13)* ensured the chase remained on track.
Sri Lanka reached 171/4 in 18.4 overs, winning by six wickets with eight balls to spare.
What this result means
- Sri Lanka maintained their 100% record in Group B and head into the Super Four with momentum.
- Bangladesh also progress as group runners-up, leaving Afghanistan eliminated.
- Nuwan Thushara was brilliant with the new ball, while Mohammad Nabi’s late cameo will be remembered as one of the innings of the tournament despite ending in defeat.
For Sri Lanka, Mendis’ form at the top could be decisive as they chase continental glory.
Brief Scores
Afghanistan: 169/8 in 20 overs (Mohammad Nabi 60 off 22, Rashid Khan 24; Nuwan Thushara 4/18)
Sri Lanka: 171/4 in 18.4 overs (Kusal Mendis 74* off 52, Kamindu Mendis 26* off 13; Mohammad Nabi 1/20)
Result: Sri Lanka won by 6 wickets (with 8 balls remaining)
Player of the Match: Kusal Mendis (74* off 52)
Zainab Shafiq