By In the opening game of the three-match ODI series in Pallekele, Sri Lanka secured a 42-run victory over Afghanistan, propelled by Pathum Nissanka’s historic double century (210* off 139 balls) – the first by a Sri Lankan in ODIs. Nissanka’s sublime innings, coupled with a four-wicket haul from Pramod Madushan, proved pivotal in Sri Lanka’s triumph. Despite Mohammad Nabi’s brilliant century (136 off 130) and Azmatullah Omarzai’s unbeaten 149 off 115, which fueled Afghanistan’s spirited fightback after an initial collapse to 55/5, the target of 382 proved insurmountable.
Nissanka’s batting masterclass set the tone for Sri Lanka’s dominance from the outset. Partnering with Avishka Fernando (88 runs off a run-a-ball), the duo forged a formidable 182-run opening stand. Despite a brief phase where Afghanistan sought to claw back control, Nissanka found an able ally in Sadeera Samarawickrama (45 off 36), orchestrating a swift 120-run partnership to further consolidate Sri Lanka’s position. Nissanka’s aggressive approach saw him surpassing Sanath Jayasuriya’s long-standing Sri Lankan record of 189 runs, securing his place in the prestigious double century club.
Afghanistan’s pursuit of the mammoth target faltered early on, courtesy of Madushan’s destructive spell with the new ball. His early strikes, including the crucial wickets of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, rocked Afghanistan’s top order, leaving them reeling at 55/5 by the ninth over. Despite the valiant efforts of Omarzai and Nabi, who showcased commendable resilience and stroke-making prowess, Sri Lanka’s spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana maintained tight control over the proceedings, limiting Afghanistan’s progress.
Ultimately, Sri Lanka’s comprehensive victory was a testament to Nissanka’s batting brilliance and Madushan’s impactful bowling display, underscoring the team’s formidable prowess in the series opener.
