• Sri Lanka thrashed Afghanistan in 2nd T20I by 72 runs.

  • Angelo Mathews was declared Player of the Match for his all-round show.

Angelo Mathews, Wanindu Hasaranga all-round show propels Sri Lanka to a resounding win over Afghanistan
Angelo Mathews guides Sri Lanka to victory (PC: X)

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Angelo Mathews and Wanindu Hasaranga showcased outstanding all-round performances, supported by a solid half-century from Sadeera Samarawickrama, as Sri Lanka continued Afghanistan’s winless streak in the ongoing tour, clinching the T20I series 2-0 with one match remaining at Dambulla.

Samarawickrama’s fifty and contributions from the two all-rounders propelled Sri Lanka to a commanding total. After his unbeaten innings, Mathews also made an impact with the ball, triggering a top-order collapse for Afghanistan.

Sri Lanka set a formidable total against Afghanistan

In the early stages of the match, Sri Lanka’s openers set a brisk pace, stitching a rapid 45-run partnership in under four overs. Despite this fiery start, Afghanistan managed to break through when Azmatullah Omarzai dismissed Pathum Nissanka. The loss of Nissanka and Kusal Mendis halted Sri Lanka’s momentum momentarily.

Samarawickrama’s composed fifty, coupled with valuable cameos, stabilized Sri Lanka’s innings after the early setbacks. Contributions from Hasaranga and Mathews in the later overs propelled Sri Lanka to a formidable total of 187/6. Mathews, in particular, played a crucial role, smashing four sixes and two fours in his 22-ball 42 not, which proved pivotal in Sri Lanka’s late surge.

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Sri Lanka bundled out Afghanistan for 115

Mathews and Binura Fernando struck early blows with the ball during Afghanistan’s chase. Mathews’ double breakthroughs in the powerplay overs set the tone for Sri Lanka, with Fernando also making crucial inroads. Despite a brief resistance from Mohammad Nabi and Karim Janat, Afghanistan’s chase faltered, and they eventually got all out for just 115 (17 overs), losing the match by a significant margin of 72 runs.

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ANIRUDH SINGH
Anirudh is the Head of Content at CricketTimes.com. He is a seasoned journalist and content writer with 12 years of experience in the field of cricket. With over 9,000 published articles under his belt, Anirudh brings a creative and strategic approach to his work, always striving to deliver content that resonates with audiences. A die-hard sports fan who loves playing, watching and talking about cricket. Cricket is his Religion & 'Sachin Tendulkar' his GOD. His motto of life is Eat, Sleep, Cricket, REPEAT!! You can write to him at anirudh@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.