Afghanistan continued their impressive run in the World Cup 2026 with a hard-fought 9-run victory over Sri Lanka in Match 28 at Docklands Stadium, delivering another high-intensity contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final over.

Afghanistan Innings: Najibullah Zadran Lights Up the Night

Afghanistan’s innings got off to a shaky start as early wickets put pressure on the top order. However, Najibullah Zadran produced a sensational counter-attacking knock, smashing 47 off just 15 balls at a breathtaking strike rate. His fearless stroke play completely shifted the momentum, rescuing Afghanistan from a precarious position and propelling them to a competitive total of 113 for 7 in 10 overs.

Support came from Fazalhaq Farooqi, who anchored the latter stages with a composed unbeaten 31, ensuring Afghanistan crossed the 110-run mark. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Dushmantha Chameera and Lahiru Kumara, struck regularly, but Najibullah’s explosive innings proved decisive.

Sri Lanka Chase: Late Fight, Narrow Miss

Chasing 114, Sri Lanka’s innings never truly settled. Early wickets hurt their rhythm, but Oshada Fernando’s attacking 35 and Angelo Mathews’ brisk 26 reignited hopes with a promising middle-order stand. The chase remained alive deep into the innings, setting up a tense finish.

Afghanistan’s bowling unit, however, held their nerve. Azmatullah Omarzai’s crucial three-wicket spell dismantled the top order, while disciplined fielding and smart death bowling ensured Sri Lanka were restricted to 104 all out in 10 overs.

Turning Point

Najibullah Zadran’s explosive cameo not only lifted Afghanistan’s total but also applied scoreboard pressure that ultimately made the difference in a low-scoring thriller.

Final Word

This victory showcased Afghanistan’s growing maturity on the global stage—combining power hitting, disciplined bowling, and calm decision-making under pressure. For Sri Lanka, it was another match of miss