SHARJAH: Batters played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s magnificent chase of a 176-run target to avenge their defeat in the group stage of the Asia Cup as they secured a thrilling four-wicket win over Afghanistan in the opening match of the Super 4 stage.

After a solid start by the openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, Danushka Gunathilaka played a superb knock of 33 off 20 in the middle, before Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Wanindu Hasaranga pounded Afghanistan bowlers in the death overs to help Sri Lanka chase down the target with five balls to spare.

Mendis top-scored for his side with 36 off 19, while Nissanka also scored 36 off 28 to give the hosts a flourishing start to their chase. Meanwhile, Rajapaksa hit a powerful 31 off 14, laced with four boundaries and a six to release the pressure in the crucial stage of the game.

For Afghanistan, Mujeeb ur Rehman and Naveen-ul-Haq claimed two wickets each with Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi making a scalp apiece.

Earlier, Rehmanullah Gurbaz blasted a phenomenal 84 off 45, smashing six gigantic sixes and four boundaries as Aghanistan raised 175/6 after they were put to bat.

Ibrahim Zadran failed to capitalize on his stay on the crease as he was sent back to the pavilion by Dilshan Madushanka after a steady knock of 40 off 38.

For Sri Lanka, Madhushanka picked two wickets while Maheesh Theekshana and Asitha Fernando took a scalp each.

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