In the ODI World Cup 2023, cricket fans are gearing up for an exciting clash between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. Match number 30 of the tournament will unfold at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Monday, October 30. This day-night game promises to be a thrilling encounter and is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM IST.
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Both Afghanistan and Sri Lanka are sitting in the middle of the points table, with 4 points from five matches. The only difference separating them is the net run rate, which currently favours Sri Lanka. As they lock horns, this clash carries significant weight in the quest for a spot in the knockout stage.
In their most recent outing, Afghanistan delivered a stunning performance, defeating Pakistan by 8 wickets in Chennai. Afghanistan’s bowlers excelled in restricting Pakistan to 282/7. The Afghan batting lineup, led by Ibrahim Zadran’s 87, Rahmat Shah’s unbeaten 77, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s 65, then displayed remarkable skills as they achieved the target in 49 overs. This historic victory marked Afghanistan’s first-ever ODI win over Pakistan.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, found success against England, securing an emphatic 8-wicket victory in Bengaluru. Their bowlers were clinical in dismissing England for just 156 runs, with Lahiru Kumara leading the charge with figures of 3/53. In the chase, Pathum Nissanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama took centre stage, guiding Sri Lanka to a convincing win. Unfortunately, Sri Lanka will miss the services of Kumara in the World Cup due to a thigh injury, which is indeed a setback for the team.
AFG vs SL Head-to-Head in ODIs
Turning our attention to the head-to-head statistics between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, it is Sri Lanka who has had the upper hand in ODI encounters. Out of their 11 meetings, Sri Lanka has emerged victorious in 7, with Afghanistan winning 3. There have been no tied matches, and one game ended with no result.
AFG vs SL Head-to-Head in World Cup
In the context of the ODI World Cup, Sri Lanka has a perfect record against Afghanistan, winning both encounters. Their last meeting in the tournament was in 2019 when Sri Lanka secured a 34-run victory over Afghanistan in Cardiff.
Looking at their recent head-to-head matches, Sri Lanka has dominated Afghanistan in four out of their last five ODI encounters. Afghanistan’s lone win came in June 2023, when they triumphed with a convincing 6-wicket victory in Hambantota. These recent encounters showcase the competitive spirit between the two teams, making their clash in the 2023 World Cup all the more intriguing.
In the upcoming clash at World Cup 2023, both teams will be determined to make their mark and secure a valuable victory. With the form and history in mind, it’s anyone’s guess which side will emerge victorious in this gripping battle for World Cup glory. Cricket enthusiasts, mark your calendars for October 30 and get ready for an exciting match between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.
