Afghanistan’s opener, Ibrahim Zadran, showcased a remarkable performance by scoring a run-a-ball 98, leading his team to a convincing six-wicket victory over hosts Sri Lanka in the first of three one-day internationals held on Friday. Opting to field first after winning the toss in Hambantota, Afghanistan restricted Sri Lanka to a below-par total of 268 all out, despite a commendable innings of 91 by Charith Asalanka.
Zadran, along with Rahmat Shah (55), played a pivotal role in steering Afghanistan to a commanding position, reaching 269-4 in the 47th over. Zadran’s explosive knock included 11 fours and two sixes, with his half-century coming off just 35 balls. Notably, he unleashed his sixes against rookie pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who gained recognition for his performances in the IPL for the Chennai Super Kings. Pathirana ended with figures of 1-66 in his debut ODI.
The 21-year-old Zadran’s exceptional innings was halted by Sri Lanka’s Kasun Rajitha, who emerged as the most effective bowler for his side, claiming figures of 2-49 in his 10 overs. Despite Zadran’s dismissal, Mohammad Nabi (27) and Najibullah Zadran (7) ensured Afghanistan’s victory remained intact.
Lahiru Kumara was the lone wicket-taker for Sri Lanka, securing a solitary wicket for 21 runs in 4.3 overs, as the rest of their bowlers struggled to make an impact.
Reflecting on his performance, Zadran expressed his disappointment at falling short of a century but acknowledged the efforts of his bowlers in restricting Sri Lanka to a sub-300 total. He described the target of 269 as challenging but not insurmountable, given the favorable batting conditions.
In the first innings, Sri Lanka witnessed a rescue act from Asalanka and Dhananjaya de Silva, who combined for a crucial 99-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Asalanka top-scored with 91 off 95 balls, including 12 fours, before being run out in the final over. The Sri Lankan team will utilize this series as preparation for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe, while Afghanistan, already qualified for the showpiece event in India, will be experimenting with different combinations.
