Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Series on the Line in Second ODI
With the series hanging in the balance, Sri Lanka have opted to bat first against Afghanistan in the second ODI. On Sunday, June 4th, the two teams will face off at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium in Hambantota, with Afghanistan looking to secure a win that would give them the series. The match will be played without the presence of Afghanistan’s star player Rashid Khan, yet a victory would still provide the Afghani side with a huge boost of confidence as the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 approaches. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, led by Dasun Shanaka, will look to demonstrate the same strength that led them to victory in the Asia Cup last year.
Afghanistan Take Command in First ODI
In the first match of the series, Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah led the way for Afghanistan, scoring 98 and 55 respectively. This 146-run partnership allowed the visitors to cruise to a comfortable 6-wicket win, as they chased a target of 269.
Conclusion
The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan is set to be an exciting one, with both teams vying for the series victory. While the absence of Rashid Khan will be a blow for Afghanistan, a win could still be a major boost for them as the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 draws nearer. For Sri Lanka, the match presents an opportunity to show the same strength that led them to success in the Asia Cup last year.