Setting the Stage:
The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, held on February 11th, 2024, at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, was a crucial encounter for both sides. Sri Lanka aimed to clinch the series after their narrow win in the first ODI, while Afghanistan desperately needed a win to stay alive.
Sri Lanka’s Batting Bonanza:
Winning the toss and opting to bat, Sri Lanka got off to a decent start with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis providing a solid foundation. However, it was Charith Asalanka who stole the show, playing a magnificent innings of 97 runs. His knock was a blend of aggression and elegance, peppered with 10 fours and 2 sixes.
Asalanka found able support from Janith Liyanage, who chipped in with a valuable 39 runs, and Dhananjaya de Silva’s brisk 27 runs towards the end. Sri Lanka capitalized on Afghanistan’s bowling inconsistencies, particularly their inability to contain Asalanka, and posted a competitive total of 304 runs on the board.
Afghan Batting Falters:
Chasing a challenging target, Afghanistan’s openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Hazratullah Zazai started cautiously. However, the introduction of spin changed the complexion of the innings. Wanindu Hasaranga, the Sri Lankan spin wizard, weaved his magic, dismissing both openers and putting Afghanistan on the back foot.
Though Ibrahim Zadran and Najibullah Zadran attempted a middle-order revival with a 69-run partnership, their resistance was short-lived. Dushmantha Chameera broke the crucial stand, and Afghanistan suffered a batting collapse. The remaining batsmen fell like dominoes, succumbing to Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling attack.
Hasaranga Spins a Web:
Wanindu Hasaranga was undoubtedly the star of the bowling show for Sri Lanka. His accurate leg-spin deliveries troubled the Afghan batsmen throughout the innings. He finished with a magnificent four-wicket haul, conceding just 33 runs in his ten overs.
Support came from fellow spinners Maheesh Theekshana and Dhananjaya de Silva, who picked up two wickets each. Even the fast bowlers, Dushmantha Chameera and Kasun Rajitha, chipped in with crucial wickets at regular intervals.
Sri Lanka Seal the Series:
With Afghanistan bundled out for a paltry 149 runs, Sri Lanka secured a convincing 155-run victory and sealed the three-match ODI series with one game remaining. Their dominant performance showcased their strong batting lineup and potent bowling attack, making them firm favorites for the series win.
Key Takeaways:
Sri Lanka’s batting, spearheaded by Charith Asalanka’s 97, laid the foundation for their victory.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s four-wicket haul was instrumental in restricting Afghanistan’s chase.
Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling attack proved too strong for the Afghan batsmen.
With the series win, Sri Lanka has gained valuable momentum before the final ODI.
