Afghanistan and Sri Lanka lock horns in Match 11 of the Asia Cup 2025 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, September 18. For Afghanistan, it’s a do-or-die contest as they must win to keep their Super Four hopes alive after a narrow defeat to Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka, already through to the next stage, come into the clash high on confidence following back-to-back wins, with Pathum Nissanka and Wanindu Hasaranga leading the charge. This high-stakes encounter promises plenty of drama as Afghanistan fight for survival against the in-form former champions.
Head-to-head record: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka in T20Is
Afghanistan and Sri Lanka have faced each other 8 times in T20 internationals. Sri Lanka holds the upper hand with 5 victories, while Afghanistan has managed to win 3 matches.
- Total matches: 8
- Afghanistan wins: 3
- Sri Lanka wins: 5
- Tied/No result: 0
Top players to watch: Batters & Bowlers
Batters to watch
Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan): The all-rounder has impressed with 83 runs in two games at an explosive strike rate of 224.32. His late-innings hitting power can tilt the game in Afghanistan’s favour if he gets going.
Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka): The opener has been Sri Lanka’s most reliable batter in the Asia Cup 2025, scoring 118 runs in two innings at an average of 59.00 and a strike rate of 151.28. His form at the top will be crucial against Afghanistan’s spin-heavy attack.
Bowlers to watch
Noor Ahmad (Afghanistan): The young left-arm wrist-spinner has bagged three wickets in two matches. His partnership with Rashid Khan in the middle overs will be vital in putting pressure on Sri Lanka’s batting lineup.
Dushmantha Chameera (Sri Lanka): The experienced pacer has picked up three wickets in two matches so far. His ability to strike early with the new ball makes him a key weapon for Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi.
AFG vs. SL betting odds & predictions: Who has the edge?
According to Dafabet, Sri Lanka head into this contest as the slight favourites with odds of 1.80, while Afghanistan are priced at 2.01. The odds reflect Sri Lanka’s stronger form in the tournament so far, but Afghanistan’s all-round depth makes this a competitive matchup.
Odds* (click here to bet) | |
Afghanistan | 2.01 |
Sri Lanka | 1.80 |
*odds are correct at the time of publish
TSN’s Top 3 Predictions:
- Match Result – Sri Lanka to win
- Pathum Nissanka to score 30+ runs
- Noor Ahmad to take 2+ wickets
Explore live odds, predictions, and betting guides in the TSN betting section.
Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka: Expected playing XIs and team news
Afghanistan Team News
Afghanistan enter this clash under pressure after a narrow defeat to Bangladesh. Their batting unit has shown promise but needs more consistency in the middle order. Azmatullah Omarzai’s explosive form has been a big positive, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran will look to give them a solid start.
On the bowling front, Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad remain the key threats in the spin department, with Fazalhaq Farooqi expected to lead the pace attack. No major injury concerns have been reported, so they are likely to field an unchanged XI.
Afghanistan (predicted playing XI): Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (w), Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Sri Lanka Team News
Sri Lanka have already secured a Super Four spot and are brimming with confidence. Pathum Nissanka continues to anchor the batting order, while Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka add depth in the middle. Wanindu Hasaranga has played a vital role both with bat and ball, and his cameo against Hong Kong underlined his value.
Dushmantha Chameera and Maheesh Theekshana will spearhead the bowling attack. Sri Lanka may stick with their winning combination, though they could test their bench strength ahead of the next stage with momentum on their side.
Sri Lanka (predicted playing XI): Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka(c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara
AFG vs. SL live scorecard: T20I Asia Cup
To follow the action between Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka live, you can make use of the live scorecard feature on Parimatch's website.
Navigate to the game of your choice and click the scorecard icon to follow along, and bet live with the action with a trusted site.
Where to watch AFG vs. SL T20I in India
- Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
- Date & Time (IST): Thursday, September 18, 8:00 p.m
- Live Telecast & Streaming Details: Sony Sports Networks and Sony LIV app & website
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