Abu Dhabi, September 18, 2025: Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi’s explosive half-century propelled Afghanistan to 169/8 in their crunch ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 encounter against Sri Lanka at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
Opting to bat first, Afghanistan endured an early wobble despite a brisk start from Rahmanullah Gurbaz (14) and Sediqullah Atal (18). Sri Lankan pacer Nuwan Thushara tore through the top order, claiming 4-18 in a fiery spell that reduced Afghanistan to 40/3 inside five overs.
Ibrahim Zadran (24 off 27) attempted to steady the innings but found little support as wickets tumbled around him, leaving the side reeling at 79/6 by the 13th over.
It was Nabi who turned the tide with a breathtaking late assault. The 39-year-old smashed an unbeaten 60 off just 22 balls, laced with two fours and six towering sixes — including five in the final over bowled by Dunith Wellalage. Alongside skipper Rashid Khan (24), Nabi added a vital 35-run stand for the seventh wicket that gave Afghanistan momentum heading into the innings break.
Apart from Thushara’s heroics, Dasun Shanaka, Dushmantha Chameera and Wellalage chipped in with a wicket apiece.
Sri Lanka will now need 170 runs to secure victory.
