Match 7 of the World Cup was between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. Both teams lost their first matches. This made their match more crucial. Afghanistan lost against Australia, while New Zealand trampled Sri Lanka by 10 wickets. Nuwan Pradeep superb bowling gave Sri Lanka first win of the World Cup. Sri Lanka won by 34 runs by D/L method. Due to heavy rain, the match was reduced to 41 overs. Afghanistan won the toss at Cardiff and elected to field first. Watch the key moments of the match.
1. Sri Lanka Aggressive Start
Sri Lanka started positively with both openers were looking aggressive. In 13 overs, Sri Lanka scored 92. Mohammad Nabi provided Afghanistan with the breakthrough. Kusal Perera along with Lahiru Thirimanne tried to steady the innings of Sri Lanka. Kusal Perera scored a half-century and got out on 78.
2. Sri Lanka Collapse
With the start, Sri Lanka got, 300 was looking like well within their reach. But one over from Mohammad Nabi changed the momentum of the game. Mohammad Nabi picked up 3 wickets in 22nd over and break Sri Lanka’s rhythm.
From their Sri Lanka never recovered and with rain spoiled the party, the match was reduced to 41 overs. Sri Lanka was bowled out at 201. With Duck-worth Lewis came into the picture, the target for Afghanistan was 187. Mohammad Nabi was the pick of the bowler, took 4 wickets.
3. Afghanistan Poor Start
Afghanistan started poorly and they lost their 5 wickets for just 57. Captain Gulbadin Naib and Najibullah Zardan steady the ship for Afghanistan with 64 run partnership. Nuwan Pradeep strikes and LBWed Gulabdin. Nuwan Pradeep was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka who took 4 wickets. Najibullah was the key in the chase. Once he ran out, it was all but over for Afghanistan.
4. Nuwan Pradeep – Man Of The Match
Nuwan Pradeep incredible bowling performance of 9 overs 31 runs and 4 wickets gave Sri Lanka their first win of the World Cup. Lasith Maling picked by 3 wickets. Sri Lanka won by 34 runs D/L method.
Afghanistan played today in their alternate jersey red. ICC brought the new rules of alternate jerseys. Check out India’s alternate jersey.
Tomorrow there are two matches, South Africa will play against India at Southampton on 5th June. South Africa will be on huge pressure as they lost two in two and the match against India will be very crucial. India will be starting their campaign. With Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi injured, South Africa will have a huge task in front of strong India. The second match is Bangladesh will take on Blackcaps New Zealand at The Oval on 5th June. Check out highlights from the World Cup Match 4 between Afghanistan and Australia.
Some of the most amazing facts about the Cricket World Cup. Afghanistan next match is against New Zealand on 8th June and Sri Lanka will take on Pakistan on 7th June. Stay Tune with us for the key moments of all the matches of the World Cup.
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