Sri Lanka in Asia Cup final after big win over Afghanistan

Mirpur (Bangladesh), March 3 (IANS) Sri Lanka moved into the final of the Asia Cup cricket tournament with a massive 129-run win over debutants Afghanistan at the Sher-e-Bangla-National Stadium here Monday.

Sri Lanka’s massive win further diminished India’s hopes of entering the final. India, who have suffered two losses in three matches, have to win with a bonus point against Afghanistan and hope that Bangladesh register an upset victory over Pakistan in their last respective league matches.

Chasing a target of 254, Afghanistan were bowled out for 124 in 38.4 overs.

Ajantha Mendis (3 for 11), Thisara Perera (3 for 29) and Chaturanga de Silva (2 for 29) did most of the damage for Sri Lanka with the ball.

Afghanistan faltered in their run chase right from the start and were reduced to 73 for five in the 21st over.

Afghanistan captain Mohammad Nabi was the top scorer with 37 off 40 balls and hit three fours and a six. Noor Ali Zadran (21) and Asghar Stanikzai (27) got starts but failed to get going.

Earlier, opting to bat first, Sri Lanka made 253 for six in 50 overs. Kumar Sangakkara made a patient 76 in 102 balls while skipper Angelo Mathews struck a quickfire 41-ball 45.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 253/6 in 50 overs (Kumar Sangakkara 76, Angelo Mathews 45; Mirwais Ashraf 2/29). Afghanistan 124 all out in 38.4 overs (Mohammad Nabi 37, Asghar Stanikzai 27; Ajantha Mendis 3/11, Thisara Perera 3/29)