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Afghanistan A beat Sri Lanka A in the final of the Emerging Asia Cup 2024 on Sunday to lift the trophy for the first time.
Afghanistan chased down the 134-run target over losing three wickets in 18.1 overs as opening batter Sediqullah Atal scored a match-winning 55 off 55 balls in Al Amerat.
This victory came on the heels of their impressive semi-final win over India A, with Afghanistan’s bowlers continuing to be instrumental in their title run. Bilal Sami and Allah Ghanzanifar, who had delivered standout performances throughout the tournament, starred again with the ball in the final.
Afghanistan A’s bowling attack held control right from the start. Sri Lanka A struggled to build a stable partnership as Afghanistan’s bowlers kept the pressure high. Saham Archchige’s unbeaten 64 off 47 balls was the lone resistance in the Sri Lankan lineup, helping his side reach a modest 133. Sami’s 3/22 and Ghanzanifar’s economical 2/14 proved pivotal, stifling Sri Lanka’s scoring and ensuring a manageable chase for Afghanistan.
The pitch in Al Amerat proved to be tricky, posing challenges for both teams. Afghanistan A’s innings began with a shock, as opener Zubaid Akbari was dismissed for a golden duck on the very first ball. However, Sediqullah Atal showed composure at the crease, putting resilience over aggressive strokes. His measured 55 off 55 balls provided the stability Afghanistan A needed to weather the initial setback and chase down the target.
Sri Lanka A’s bowlers found it hard to shift the momentum in their favor despite the early wicket, managing only three dismissals across Afghanistan’s innings. Mohammad Ishfaq then stepped in to finish the job, guiding Afghanistan A comfortably to the title with controlled batting at the tail end.
This victory is a significant moment for Afghanistan A, underscoring the talent in their rising ranks. Their bowling attack, led by Sami and Ghanzanifar, proved decisive in key moments, and the team’s balanced approach showcased their growth on the international stage. The Emerging Asia Cup win reflects Afghanistan’s increasing competitive edge in cricket, with promising players poised to impact the senior stage in the future.
