Lacklustre Sri Lankans lucky beat Afghanistan

ICC Cricket World Cup, 12th Match, Pool A: Afghanistan v Sri Lanka Played at University Oval, Dunedin

 

Afghanistan 232 all out 49.4 overs Asghar Stanikzai 54, Samiullah Shenwari 38, Malinga 3-41, Mathews 3-41, lost to Sri Lanka 236-6 48.2 overs, Jayawardene 100, Mathews 44, Perera 47* Hamid Hassan 3-45, Sri Lanka won by 4 wickets (with 10 balls remaining). 

When Asghar Stanikzai 54, Samiullah Shenwari 39 or Mohammad Nabi 21, were batting for Afghanistan there was a power irrespective of the presence of any of the “big” sides in this tournament. But When Sri Lanka batted the two new balls were in the hands of the Zadrans, Dawlat and the giant Shapoor, there was sufficient menace to dismiss both the Sri Lankan openers for golden ducks. Without the domineering Mahela Jayawardene, who hit a century, and a chaotic late flurry from Thisara Perera – 47 from 26 balls – Sri Lanka who were made to sweat for victory, would surely have lost.

At the end Sri Lankans, prevailed by four wickets with 10 balls to spare.