COOLIDGE: Afghanistan secured a thrilling victory in the quarterfinal of the ICC Under-19 World Cup; defeating Sri Lanka by just four runs, here on Thursday.

Set to chase 135, the Sri Lankan batting line-up failed to chase a paltry total; falling four runs short. Captain Dimuth Wellalage fought hard with his 34, while the rest of the batters failed to make a significant contribution.

Afghanistan’s bowlers, on the other hand, held their nerves calm to defend a low total. Bilal Sami claimed two wickets, while Naveed Zadran, Noor Ahmad, Izharulhaq Naveed, Nangeyalia Kharote struck out a batter each.

Batting first, Afghanistan’s batting line-up also failed to post a commendable total and could only manage to score 134 before getting bowled out.

Ahmad scored 30, while Abdul Hadi top-scored with his gritty 37; facing 97 deliveries and scoring three boundaries.

For Sri Lanka, Vinuja Ranpul starred; taking five wickets, while Welllalage picked three. Treveen Mathew and Yasiru Rodrigo, on the other hand, shared one wicket apiece.

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