Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka: Asia Cup Showdown Looms in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Sep 17 (PTI) Afghanistan faces a crucial challenge as they prepare to face Sri Lanka in a decisive Asia Cup group match here on Thursday. Both teams eye a spot in the super fours, but Afghanistan's hopes hang in the balance after a setback against Bangladesh.

Following their defeat, Afghanistan must overcome a steady Sri Lanka to keep their tournament dreams alive. A victory would result in a tie, putting Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh at four points each. However, Afghanistan's superior net run rate of 2.150, compared to Bangladesh's -0.270, provides a potential advantage, especially as Bangladesh has concluded their league matches.

With heightened expectations fueled by their T20 World Cup semifinal appearance, Rashid Khan's squad needs to regain their form, particularly with the bat, which has yet to flourish in the Asia Cup. Their last outing saw Afghanistan falter as they failed to chase down a target of 155 set by Bangladesh.

Rashid Khan expressed his disappointment, pointing out their lack of signature attacking cricket. "We haven't played the type of cricket we are famous for - attacking cricket. We let a lot of pressure build on ourselves... but with the batting, we played some irresponsible shots," he remarked after their loss.

Sri Lanka, on a winning streak, is also seeking to elevate their game. Having navigated a tricky chase against Hong Kong, captain Charith Asalanka is aware of the need for professionalism against a determined Afghanistan side. "We are professionals and we have to do much better," Asalanka emphasized.

While Sri Lanka's batters face the challenge of Afghanistan's strong spin attack, they must strategize to tackle Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan and his team. Conversely, Afghanistan will have to navigate the abilities of mystery spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who has been impressive so far.

Sri Lanka's top order, including Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Kamil Mishara, has shown promising form. Mendis, yet to deliver a standout performance, will be eager to prove his mettle and push Sri Lanka into the super fours during Thursday night's clash.

Squads:
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana.
Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mohammad Ishaq, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, AM Ghazanfar, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq.

Match starts at 8 PM IST.

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