Sri Lanka won first ODI 42 run against Afghanistan

2024.02.10

Nissanka played a sensational knock of 210 runs off 139 balls and was named Player of the Match.

In the first ODI of the three-match series, Sri Lanka defeated Afghanistan by 42 runs thanks to a thrilling batting display at the Pallekele International Stadium. Pathum Nissanka‘s incredible double ton overshadowed Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi’s valiant centuries.

A lesson in batting supremacy, led by Nissanka’s incredible double century, the Sri Lankan innings transpired. Nissanka’s brilliant innings of 210 runs off 139 balls, which featured eight sixes and twenty fours, lighted up the arena. With a strong 88 runs, Avishka Fernando set the stage for an impressive total. Sadeera Samarawickrama’s aggressive 45 meant that Sri Lanka amassed an impressive 381/3 in their allocated 50 overs, despite weathering a few early setbacks.

In addition to anchoring Sri Lanka’s innings, Nissanka’s double century made history by making him the first player from the country to reach this mark in one-day internationals. His century was a brilliant fusion of power and grace that completely destroyed the Afghan bowling assault.

It was difficult for the Afghanistani bowlers to control the Sri Lankan hitters; their only bowler who was effective was Fareed Malik, who claimed two wickets. The last bowling group, which included Gulbadin Naib, Omarzai, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, went wicketless and gave up a lot of runs.

Afghanistan encountered initial difficulties in their pursuit of a formidable objective, at one point being at a 55/5 disadvantage. Still, a spectacular counterattack led by Omarzai and Nabi followed. With 149 runs off 115 balls, Omarzai had an incredible innings, while Nabi chipped in with a determined 136 off 130 balls. After the pair put together an incredible 242 runs for the sixth wicket, Afghanistan was back in the game.

The Omarzai-Nabi combination however, Sri Lanka’s bowlers showed tenacity. Pramod Madushan was outstanding, scoring 75 runs off of four key wickets. With two wickets, Dushmantha Chameera made sure Afghanistan’s needed run rate continued to rise. Afghanistan ultimately failed to reach the goal, settling for 339/6 in 50 overs.

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

@charith