Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are set for a high-stakes battle as they lock horns in Match No. 11 of the Asia Cup 2025. The game will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on Thursday, September 18, at 8:00 PM (IST). With a spot in the Super Four on the line, this clash promises to be a thriller, especially for Afghanistan, who face a must-win scenario to keep their tournament alive.
Match Details
-
Match: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Match 11, Asia Cup 2025
-
Date & Time: Thursday, September 18, 8:00 PM (IST)
-
Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
-
Live Streaming & Broadcast:
-
India: Sony Sports Network, SonyLIV (App & Website), YuppTV
-
Pakistan: PTV Sports, Tapmad TV
-
Sri Lanka: Star Sports, Dialog TV
-
Afghanistan: RTA Sports
-
Other Regions: YuppTV and ICC.tv
-
Team Overviews
Sri Lanka (SL)
Sri Lanka have started their Asia Cup 2025 campaign on a strong note. They defeated Bangladesh comprehensively by six wickets in their opening fixture and later chased down Hong Kong with four wickets to spare. With two wins in two matches, the defending champions look well-balanced. Their batting has been steady, anchored by Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, while their spin attack led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana has posed challenges for opponents. A win here would not just secure their Super Four berth but also boost their confidence for tougher contests ahead.
Afghanistan (AFG)
Afghanistan’s campaign has been a mixed bag. After a strong opening win, they suffered a setback in their second outing, leaving this clash as a do-or-die game. Their batting, powered by Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, has been explosive at times but inconsistent. Skipper Rashid Khan will once again shoulder the responsibility in the spin department, supported by Noor Ahmad, whose performances have been encouraging. For Afghanistan, this fixture is about survival, and they will need their big names to step up.
Head-to-Head Record
-
Total Matches Played: 08
-
Sri Lanka Wins: 05
-
Afghanistan Wins: 03
-
First Fixture: March 17, 2016
-
Most Recent Fixture: February 21, 2024
Sri Lanka hold the edge historically, but Afghanistan have proven they can surprise the Islanders on big stages.
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka (SL)
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara
Afghanistan (AFG)
Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Key Players to Watch
-
Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka): With 118 runs in two innings at a strike rate of over 150, Nissanka is in excellent form and could once again anchor the innings.
-
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka): The star all-rounder brings balance with his wicket-taking spin and handy runs in the middle order.
-
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan): Known for his aggressive starts, Gurbaz’s knock could set the tone for Afghanistan.
-
Noor Ahmad (Afghanistan): With three wickets in two games, the young chinaman has emerged as a key weapon, especially in partnership with Rashid Khan.
Pitch Report – Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
The surface at Abu Dhabi has been fairly balanced. While batters who play with intent have scored freely, bowlers have also found assistance. The average first innings score here has been around 135 runs. Given the conditions, the toss-winning captain is likely to bowl first, aiming to chase under lights when the ball comes on better. The hot weather could also test fitness and endurance.
Probable Scenarios
-
If Sri Lanka bats first and posts 150+, their spinners could dominate and choke Afghanistan in the chase.
-
If Afghanistan bats first, a power-packed start from Gurbaz and Zadran will be crucial to get them past 140. Anything under 130 might be difficult to defend against Sri Lanka’s experienced lineup.
Match Prediction
Sri Lanka enter the contest as favorites given their current form, depth in batting, and quality spinners. However, Afghanistan’s unpredictability and fighting spirit cannot be underestimated. If their top order clicks and Rashid-Noor combine effectively, they can cause an upset.
Prediction: Sri Lanka to edge past Afghanistan in a close encounter, sealing their Super Four spot.