SL vs AFG: Hosts clinch comfortable victory despite Afghanistan’s top order fight back

The only Test of the ongoing multi-format series between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan finally ended after four days of play. Day 3 of the clash ended with Afghanistan batting at a score of 199 runs in the second innings with the loss of a single wicket.

The side put forth a resilient performance with the bat; opener Ibrahim Zadran scored 114 runs in 259 deliveries. Rahmat Shah completed his half-century, scoring 54 runs in 119 deliveries.

Furthermore, Nasir Jamal went unbeaten for 41 runs in 67 deliveries. Afghanistan put forth a good effort and managed to post a total of 296 runs in the second inning, giving Sri Lanka a target of 56 runs to chase down.

As for the hosts, Prabath Jayasuriya was the highest wicket-taker, with five wickets to his name. Asitha Fernando took three wickets, with Kasun Rajitha taking two and limiting Afghanistan to a reasonable total.

Sri Lanka register a comfortable victory

Aiming to chase down a target of 56 runs, Sri Lanka put forth a good performance with the bat as the openers finished the job for the hosts and helped them gain the lead in the series. Dimuth Karunaratne and Nishan Madushka went unbeaten for scores of 32 and 22 runs, respectively.

Winning the game by 10 wickets, Sri Lanka gained the lead in the multi-format series, and after winning the only Test, both sides will shift their focus to the shorter formats.

After the only Test, both sides will not face off in a three-game ODI series, which is slated to begin on Friday, February 9. Sri Lanka and Afghanistan will compete at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.