Afghanistan humble mighty Sri Lanka in World Cup cricket; moves to fifth spot

PUNE: The cricket world Cup is gifting more such nerve-puller games and in the latest, Afghanistan continued their valour by creating an upset victory against mighty Sri Lanka. Afghanistan won by seven wickets in Pune. Afghanistan came out with a target of 242 runs and reached the victory in 45.2 overs with the loss of three wickets. Ibrahim Zadran (39), Rahmat Shah (62), captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (58 not out) and Azmatullah Omarzai (73 not out) ensured a thrilling victory for the Afghans. They created an unbeaten partnership of 111 runs for the fourth wicket.

With this, Afghanistan has reached the fifth position with six points in six matches. Lanka, who suffered their fourth defeat in six matches, are sixth with four points.

Lanka won the toss and went into bat but were bowled out for 241 runs in 49.3 overs. Pathum Nisanga, who scored 46 runs, was Lanka's top scorer. Captain Kushal Mendis (39), Sadira Samarawickrama (36), Charit Asalanka (22), Angelo Mathews (23) and Mahesh Theesna (29*) contributed to the score.

The Lankan batsmen were kept under control by Fazal Farooqui who took 4 wickets for 34 runs including a maiden in the fifth over. Mujeeb Rahman took two wickets while Rashid Khan and Omarzai took one wicket each. Farooqi gave Afghanistan their first break by dismissing Dimuth Karunaratna (15) in the sixth over. But Nisanga and Mendis showed signs of composure and helped the team gain some runs in the decisive overs. However, the Afghan bowlers took wickets at regular intervals thus breaking every partnership at the right time.