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Sri Lanka Post 291, Here's How Afghanistan Can Qualify For Super 4 in Asia Cup

image-lm6d1yztKusal Mendis slammed a glorious fifty [X.com]

Riding on a flamboyant half century from Kusal Mendis and useful contributions from Pathum Nissanka, Dunith Wellalage and Maheesh Theekshana, Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 291 runs in 50 overs in the ongoing Asia Cup fixture against Afghanistan. 

After opting to bat first, the Lankans got off to a flying start, courtesy of a quick-fire 63-run opening stand between Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka. However, veteran all-rounder Gulbadin Naib brought the Afghans back into the game, dismissing the openers and Sadeera Samarawickrama in quick succession. 

However, Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka steadied the Lankan ship, adding vital 102 runs for the fourth wicket before Rashid Khan removed the latter to trigger a collapse. 

The Afghan spin maestro castled Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka besides running out Mendis in the 39th over. Although the co-hosts were in spot of a bother, a priceless 64-run stand between Wellalage and Theekshana powered them to 291 runs in 50 overs. 

While Wellalage struck three fours and a six for a 39-ball 33*, Theekshana smashed two boundaries and a six for a breezy 28-run cameo. 


How Can Afghanistan Qualify For Super 4 in Asia Cup?

Meanwhile, talking about Afghanistan, the Hashmatullah Shahidi led outfit needs to chase the 292-run target in a mere 37.1 overs to pip Sri Lanka in the NRR battle and qualify for the Super Four stage. However, it seems to be an uphill task, as they have already lost explosive batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz early in the innings. 

Bangladesh have already made it to the Super Four from Group B following their comprehensive win over Afghanistan in the last game.