Pune: In the ongoing World Cup 2023 match, Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, won the toss and opted to bowl first against Sri Lanka. Shahidi’s decision was influenced by the anticipation of dew affecting the game later in the day. In a strategic move, Afghanistan brought in Fazalhaq Farooqi, replacing Noor Ahmad.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, made a couple of significant changes to their lineup. Dushmantha Chameera was a predictable addition to the squad, stepping in as a replacement for the injured Lahiru Kumara. In a more surprising move, opener Kusal Perera was dropped, and Dimuth Karunaratne returned to the playing XI. However, Karunaratne’s return was short-lived as he fell to Farooqi’s bowling off the second ball of the sixth over.
Sri Lanka faced a challenging start but managed to stabilize their innings thanks to a partnership between Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka. The pair added 62 runs off 77 balls for the second wicket, providing some much-needed resilience to the Sri Lankan batting lineup. However, their progress was disrupted when Mujeeb ur Rahman returned after the 25th over and took the crucial wickets of Mendis and the in-form Sadeera Samarawickrama in consecutive overs, putting Sri Lanka on the back foot.
Both Afghanistan and Sri Lanka have been regarded as underdogs in the World Cup, with minimal expectations initially surrounding their performance. Nevertheless, both teams have managed to surprise and challenge more fancied opponents on their journey, keeping the possibility of a top-four finish within reach.
While Sri Lanka had a decent year in ODI cricket, their hopes took a hit after a disappointing performance against India in the Asia Cup final. Their World Cup campaign got off to a rocky start with three consecutive losses, but they bounced back with two consecutive victories, including a notable win over defending champions England.
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