Nissanka’s monumental double century sets Afghanistan adrift
Pathum Nissanka’s historic double century (210* off 139), the first by a Sri Lankan in ODIs, alongside Pramod Madushan’s four-wicket haul, propelled Sri Lanka to a 42-run victory over Afghanistan in the opening game of the three-match ODI series in Pallekele on Friday (February 9).
Despite remarkable centuries from Mohammad Nabi (136 off 130) and Azmatullah Omarzai (149* off 115), who shared a formidable 242-run partnership, Afghanistan’s fightback fell short after an early collapse to 55/5 within the first ten overs.
The imposing target of 382 proved insurmountable, especially given their challenging start.
Nissanka, making a comeback from injury, showcased his sublime batting skills from the outset.
His elegant strokeplay was on full display as he gracefully maneuvered the ball to all parts of the ground.
Partnering with Avishka Fernando, who also displayed his prowess with a fluent 88 off 88 balls, Nissanka laid a solid foundation with a 182-run opening stand.
Despite a brief stutter when skipper Kusal Mendis struggled, Nissanka accelerated alongside Sadeera Samarawickrama (45 off 36), forming a blistering 120-run partnership off just 71 balls.
Boundaries flowed freely as Nissanka surpassed Sanath Jayasuriya’s 24-year-old Sri Lankan record to reach the coveted double century milestone.
In Afghanistan’s daunting chase, Madushan’s devastating opening spell rattled their top order, claiming three key wickets within the first nine overs.
Despite the valiant efforts of Omarzai and Nabi, who exhibited composed batting and impressive ball-striking, the early damage proved decisive.
Sri Lanka’s spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana maintained tight control over the proceedings, even though they remained wicketless, ensuring Afghanistan never gained significant momentum.
While Omarzai and Nabi’s partnership lent respectability to Afghanistan’s total, Sri Lanka emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter.
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