Sri Lanka’s final group match against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup has turned into a virtual knockout, with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan — still in contention for a Super 4 spot.
According to analyst Krishna Kumar, the qualification pathway is tight. Afghanistan’s task is straightforward: they must beat Sri Lanka to advance.
For Bangladesh, the equation is more complex. They will qualify if Sri Lanka wins, or if Sri Lanka loses by a heavy margin — specifically, by 71 or more runs, or with Afghanistan chasing a 120-run target with at least 53 balls to spare.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will qualify as long as they avoid such a lopsided defeat. In practical terms, if Afghanistan sets 180 batting first, Sri Lanka must not lose by 71 runs or more; if Sri Lanka sets a target of 120, they must not allow Afghanistan to finish the chase with 53 or more deliveries in hand. (Newswire)
Qualification Scenarios
🔸 SL win ➝ SL & BAN qualify
🔸 AFG win ➝ AFG qualify + SL/BAN on higher NRR
