SL vs AFG: All-round masterclass from Angelo Mathews and Wanindu Hasaranga rolls out easy win for Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I against Afghanistan

Sri Lanka clinched a decisive 72-run victory over Afghanistan in the second T20I on Monday, February 19, in Dambulla, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews and captain Wanindu Hasaranga emerged as the pivotal players for the Sri Lankan team as the duo put on an eye-catching performance, first with the bat and then with the ball.

Samarawickrama, Mathews and Hasaranga play impactful knocks

Mathews' explosive innings of an unbeaten 42 runs off just 22 balls, including 2 fours and 4 sixes, propelled Sri Lanka to a competitive total of 187/6 in their allotted 20 overs. His performance, especially batting at No.7, was instrumental in boosting the team's score, demonstrating his critical role in the lineup.

The opening partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis contributed significantly to setting the pace for Sri Lanka's innings, adding 45 runs in just 3.5 overs. While Nissanka, Mendis, and Dhananjaya de Silva got off to promising starts, they couldn't convert them into substantial innings. Sadeera Samarawickrama, however, managed to score 51 runs off 42 balls, including 5 fours, playing a steady role throughout the innings despite a need for acceleration.

Skipper Hasaranga played a quick-fire cameo of 22 runs off just nine balls with the help of one four and two sixes.

From the Afghan bowling attack, Mohammad Nabi stood out with his economical spell of 4-0-25-2, proving to be the most effective bowler for Afghanistan. Azmatullah Omarzai also claimed two wickets but was expensive, maintaining an economy rate of 10.

Afghanistan batters fail once again

The chase for Afghanistan started with a significant setback as they were quickly reduced to 31/5 within the first 4.3 overs. Mohammad Nabi, alongside Karim Janat, attempted to stabilise the innings with a 39-run partnership off 29 balls. Nabi, after impressing with the ball, contributed 27 runs from 17 balls, and Janat added 28 runs off 23 balls before being dismissed by Wanindu Hasaranga.

Hasaranga not only contributed with the bat but also excelled with the ball, delivering figures of 4-0-19-2. This performance led him to surpass Lasith Malinga's record as the fastest Sri Lankan to reach 100 T20 wickets, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Ultimately, it was Angelo Mathews who was named Player of the Match, thanks to his all-around contribution, including scoring crucial runs and taking two wickets, solidifying his impact on the game.

The series is set to conclude with the third T20I, scheduled for Wednesday, February 21, in Dambulla, where Sri Lanka will aim to complete a clean sweep, while Afghanistan will look to salvage pride with a win.

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