Sri Lanka roared to a six-wicket victory in Abu Dhabi to eliminate 2024 T20 World Cup semifinalist Afghanistan from the Asia Cup.

Sri Lanka topped Group B with its third straight win as Bangladesh also qualified for the Super 4 ahead of Afghanistan with two wins and a loss.

Opening batter Kusal Mendis’s unbeaten 74 off 52 balls anchored Sri Lanka’s authoritative run-chase of 171-4 on Thursday against spin-heavy Afghanistan with more than an over to spare.

Mohammad Nabi’s (60) five big sixes against spinner Dunith Wellalage in the final over provided Afghanistan hope as they posted 169-8 after captain Rashid Khan won the toss and elected to bat.

Mendis neutralised the spin trio with his well-executed sweep shots. Wrist spinner Noor Ahmad went for 1-37 off his three overs in a rare expen

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