The Asia Cup 2023 ODI crucial match between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, there was a lot of intent shown. The aggressive intent of Afghan batters was highly impressive, but they failed to read the game in the end. Since Sri Lanka put some runs on the board on a very good pitch, it was required for Afghanistan to chase 292 in 37.1 overs. However, Afghanistan bowled out excuse subject to the extent of losing the encounter in 37.4 overs was lethargic.
Mohammad Nabi (65 off 32b) played a brilliant innings and 3 other Afghan batters also supported him to reach 289 in 37 overs. From the other end, Rashid Khan was just watching and was also clueless. He also played a brisk innings of 27 off 16 balls. Here comes what’s Afghanistan bowled out excuse, in just a matter of time. They reached 289, and they need to score 292 in 37.1 overs, which was always in their minds. Afghanistan played those 37.1 overs. Their hopes melted down.
The game was still in favor of them to cross the line in order to storm in the super 4 of the Asia Cup 2023. That was to score 4-6 runs in the next 2-3 balls, which was very much possible. But Mujeeb Ur Rahman went for a big shot, and lost his wicket, and with no proper knowledge, their hopes lost from there.
Afghanistan Bowled Out Excuse Cheeky
Moreover, next batter defends 3 balls without taking advantage of a juicy full-toss. Had he took a single run, and brought Rashid Khan on the crease, Afghanistan could be at present in the super 4 instead of Sri Lanka. They would have joined Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.
Fortunately, the deserving 4 experienced teams are there in the Asia Cup super 4. However, Pakistan defeated Bangladesh in the first super 4 ODI.
The tournament is, now completely shifted to Sri Lanka. Weather looks gloomy. It’s not fully evident that some shortened version of the 50 over format ODIs would be played. Bad weather threatens another clash. But a much interesting #INDvPAK super 4 ODI on Sunday Sept 10, which is likely to be yet another washout.
Coming back to Afghanistan coach’s complaint. The coach complained to ACC in which he told “PCB also did not showed how many runs needed on the big screen”. It’s nothing for Afghanistan to fret upon to know what was required from where. They played positively and took the game away until 36.5 overs. The match ended in 37.4 overs and they scored 289, which was just awesome hitting. An anti-climax and threatening entertainment. Sri Lanka showed patience and they, not only qualified for super 4, but also won the ODI.
