Mendis’s Batting Masterclass Sends Sri Lanka to Super-4, Afghanistan Exits Asia Cup

Sri Lanka defeated Afghanistan in the Asia Cup 2025, ending Afghanistan’s tournament run and ensuring Bangladesh’s progression to the Super-4 stage. Kusal Mendis’s remarkable innings proved decisive. Mendis’s performance overshadowed Mohammad Nabi’s strong effort for Afghanistan. Nabi had played a fiery innings, but Mendis’s half-century propelled Sri Lanka to a 6-wicket victory. Sri Lanka chased down the 170-run target in 18.4 overs, with 4 wickets down. Mendis remained not out with 74 runs off 52 balls, including 10 fours. Kusal Perera scored 28 runs with 3 fours, while Kamindu Mendis hit 26 runs with 2 sixes. Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi and Noor Ahmad each took a wicket for Afghanistan. Afghanistan had previously scored 169 runs in their 20 overs, with a notable contribution from Mohammad Nabi.