• Sri Lanka registered a 42-run win over Afghanistan in the first ODI of the three-match series.

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

Twitter reactions: Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi centuries in vain as Pathum Nissanka’s double ton guides Sri Lanka to victory over Afghanistan in the 1st ODI
Pathum Nissanka (Image Source: Twitter)

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In a riveting encounter at the Pallekele International Stadium, Sri Lanka showcased a batting spectacle on the back of Pathum Nissanka‘s spectacular double ton, overshadowing Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi‘s gritty centuries, to secure a commanding victory over Afghanistan by 42 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series.

Sri Lanka’s dominant display

The Sri Lankan innings unfolded as a masterclass in batting supremacy, spearheaded by Nissanka’s monumental double century. Nissanka’s breathtaking innings of 210 runs off 139 balls, adorned with 20 fours and 8 sixes, illuminated the stadium with sheer brilliance. Avishka Fernando‘s contribution of a solid 88 runs laid the foundation for a formidable total. Despite facing a couple of early setbacks, Sadeera Samarawickrama‘s aggressive 45 ensured Sri Lanka posted an imposing 381/3 in their alloted 50 overs.

Pathum Nissanka’s historic achievement

Nissanka’s double century not only anchored the Sri Lankan innings but also etched his name in the record books as the first Sri Lankan to achieve this milestone in ODIs. His innings was a perfect blend of elegance and power, dismantling the Afghan bowling attack with consummate ease.

Afghanistan’s struggle in bowling

The Afghanistan bowlers found it challenging to contain the Sri Lankan batters, with Fareed Malik being the only successful bowler, picking two wickets. The rest of the bowling unit, including Fazalhaq Farooqi, Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib, went wicketless, conceding significant runs.

Afghanistan’s dismal start and fight from Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi

In pursuit of a daunting target, Afghanistan faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 55/5 at one stage. However, a remarkable fightback ensued, spearheaded by Omarzai and Nabi. Omarzai played a sensational innings, scoring 149 runs off 115 balls, complemented by Nabi’s gritty 136 off 130 balls. The duo stitched a remarkable 242-run partnership for the sixth wicket, bringing Afghanistan back into the contest.

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, ODI series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Sri Lanka’s bowling resilience

Despite the Omarzai-Nabi partnership, Sri Lanka’s bowlers displayed resilience. Pramod Madushan was exceptional, claiming four crucial wickets for 75 runs. Dushmantha Chameera contributed with two wickets, ensuring the required run rate kept escalating for Afghanistan. In the end, Afghanistan fell short of the target, finishing at 339/6 in 50 overs.

Player of the Match

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

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka</h3

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