In an exciting cricket match on Sunday, Sri Lanka secured a commanding 155-run victory over Afghanistan in the second One-Day International (ODI), seizing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Afghanistan, chasing a target of 309 runs to level the series, stumbled and was all out for 153 runs in just 34 overs. Wanindu Hasaranga, a leg-spinner, stole the show with four crucial wickets.

Initially, Afghanistan appeared well-placed at 128 for one, but once Rahmat Shah and Ibrahim Zadran fell, their batting lineup crumbled. Hasaranga's impressive performance, along with support from seamers Dilshan Madushanka and Asitha Fernando, led to Afghanistan losing eight wickets for just 10 runs.

Sri Lanka's innings saw a remarkable rescue effort from Charith Asalanka, who scored an unbeaten 97 runs. Asalanka's partnership with Janith Liyanage and Wanindu Hasaranga proved pivotal, steering Sri Lanka to a formidable total of over 300 runs.

Despite a shaky start with early wickets, Sri Lanka's captain Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama steadied the innings with half-centuries, forming a crucial 103-run partnership for the third wicket.

Afghanistan's bowling, led by Azmatullah Omarzai with three wickets, showcased moments of brilliance but was overshadowed by fielding errors, including five dropped catches, proving costly for their team.

The series, which began with Sri Lanka's victory in the Test match, will culminate with the third and final ODI scheduled for Wednesday at the same stadium. Following this, both teams will engage in a series of three T20 matches, all set to take place in Dambulla.

Picture Credit - News18