In the T20 World Cup warm-up matches, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan both registered comfortable wins over their respective opponents.
Sri Lanka Overcome Ireland’s Challenge
Dasun Shanaka’s stellar all-round performance guided former champions Sri Lanka to a 41-run victory over Ireland at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill, USA.
Facing Ireland’s bowling attack, Sri Lanka faced initial difficulties, losing half their side for 82 runs in 11 overs. However, Wanindu Hasaranga (26), Angelo Mathews (32), and Shanaka (23) provided crucial contributions to help Sri Lanka post a competitive total of 163 for 8.
In response, Ireland’s chase received a boost from quick-fire knocks by Paul Stirling (21) and George Dockrell (17). Nevertheless, Shanaka’s medium pace bowling turned the tide as Ireland were bowled out for 122 in 18.2 overs.
Afghanistan Dominant Against Scotland
In another warm-up encounter at Port of Spain in Trinidad, Afghanistan showcased their prowess with commanding 55-run win over Scotland.
Opting to bat first, Afghanistan’s openers Gulbadin Naib and Rahmanullah Gurbaz got off to a flying start, laying a strong foundation for their team. Naib’s explosive innings of 69 runs off 30 balls propelled Afghanistan to a challenging total of 178 for 8. Supported by Azmatullah Omarzai’s solid knock of 48 runs.
Despite efforts from Scotland’s bowlers, including Chris Sole (3/35) and Bradley Currie (2/26), Afghanistan managed a formidable score.
In reply, Afghanistan’s spinners, led by Mujeeb Ur Rahman (2/23) and Rashid Khan (1/3), restricted Scotland to 123 for 9, securing a convincing victory.
Upcoming Matches
The T20 World Cup campaign for Sri Lanka will commence with a match against South Africa in New York on Monday, while Ireland will face India on Wednesday.
Afghanistan will open their tournament against Uganda, while Scotland will play against England in Barbados on Tuesday.
Brief Scores
At Lauderhill: Sri Lanka 163/8 (Mathews 32*; Little 2/45) beat Ireland 122 (Campher 26; Shanaka 4/23) by 41 runs.
At Port of Spain: Afghanistan 178/8 (Naib 69, Omarzai 48; Sole 3/35) beat Scotland 123/9 (Watt-34; Janat 2/13) by 55-runs.
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