Afghanistan Emerges as Emerging Asia Cup Champion After Defeating Sri Lanka

Afghanistan clinched the Emerging Asia Cup title for the first time by defeating Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the final. In the title-deciding match, Sri Lanka's 'A' team batted first and scored 133 runs for the loss of seven wickets. In reply, Afghanistan 'A' comfortably chased down the target in 18.1 overs, losing just three wickets along the way.

On Sunday, at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, Sri Lanka 'A' won the toss and opted to bat but faced an early collapse. Afghanistan's bowlers dominated, reducing Sri Lanka to 15 runs for the loss of four wickets.

Pawan Ratnayake and Sahan Arachchige then took charge to stabilize the innings. After Pawan was dismissed for 20 runs, Nimesh Vimukthi joined Arachchige, and the duo formed a 42-run partnership. Arachchige scored 64 off 47 balls, while Nimesh contributed 23 runs off 19 balls, bringing Sri Lanka 'A' to a total of 133 runs.

For Afghanistan 'A', Mohammad Ghazanfar claimed two wickets, while Bilal Sami took three.

Chasing a target of 134, Afghanistan 'A' stumbled early as opener Zubaid Akbari was dismissed for a duck. However, the other opener, Sediqullah, scored a steady 55 off 55 balls, including three fours and a six. Captain Darwish Rasooli added 24 runs, while Mohammad Ishaq (16) and Karim Janat (33) completed the chase with 11 balls to spare.

 

 

 

 

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For Sri Lanka, Arachchige, Dushan Hemantha, and Ishaan Malinga each took one wicket.