Chameera’s four-wicket haul guides Sri Lanka to series victory

Sri Lanka bounced back in style to clinch a resounding victory against Afghanistan in the final match of the series. After a disappointing loss in the first game, the comprehensive nature of their wins in the remaining matches will undoubtedly boost Sri Lanka’s confidence ahead of the upcoming World Cup Qualifier, scheduled to start on June 19.

The return of key players played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s success. Dushmantha Chameera, their key ODI bowler, made an impressive comeback after a long injury lay-off, picking up crucial wickets throughout the series. Dimuth Karunaratne, who made his return to the side after an extended absence, recorded back-to-back fifties, showcasing his value to the team. Pathum Nissanka also made a significant contribution, scoring a quickfire half-century in the final match.

In the deciding game, it was Sri Lanka’s bowlers who set the stage for the convincing victory. Dushmantha Chameera’s pace and bounce troubled the Afghan batsmen, resulting in him taking four wickets for 63 runs. Lahiru Kumara played a vital role as well, dismissing the openers and finishing with figures of 2 for 29. Wanindu Hasaranga contributed with three wickets, while Maheesh Theekshana took the remaining wicket. Sri Lanka dismantled the Afghan batting lineup, bundling them out for a paltry total of 117 in just 22.2 overs. Mohammad Nabi top-scored for Afghanistan with 23 runs, while six of their batsmen failed to reach double digits.

The collapse began early for Afghanistan when Rahmanullah Gurbaz was caught at fine leg off Kumara’s bowling. Chameera then struck twice in the fifth over, claiming the crucial wickets of Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi. Kumara added to Afghanistan’s misery by dismissing Ibrahim Zadran with a dream delivery that jagged in to knock down the stumps. Ibrahim’s dismissal for 22 left Afghanistan reeling at 48 for 4 in the ninth over.

Chameera’s second spell proved to be the most eventful, although he was unlucky to get just one wicket from a remarkable over. Mohammad Nabi survived a dropped chance and a close call before eventually falling to Chameera’s bowling. The seamer took the prized wicket of Najibullah Zadran as well, inducing an edge that was safely held at point. Hasaranga, the standout spinner for Sri Lanka, contributed two crucial wickets, including the dismissal of Rashid Khan, who missed a sweep shot and was trapped in front of the stumps.

Sri Lanka’s chase of 117 was a straightforward affair, with their top order batsmen displaying aggression and intent. Pathum Nissanka set the tone early on, smashing boundaries on both sides of the wicket and even dispatching Mujeeb Ur Rahman for a towering six. Nissanka’s attacking approach propelled Sri Lanka to a commanding position, with 41 runs on the board after five overs. Although Dimuth Karunaratne had a lucky escape, Sri Lanka continued to dominate the proceedings.

Sri Lanka’s commanding victory in the final match will provide them with much-needed confidence as they gear up for the World Cup Qualifier. The return of key players and their strong performances in both batting and bowling departments bode well for the team’s prospects in the upcoming tournament. With momentum on their side, Sri Lanka will look to carry this form into the qualifiers and secure a spot in the prestigious ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.