Today’s match prediction for Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan in the Asia Cup. This article includes the time, date, analysis, and prediction of this match.
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan- Match Details
- Fixture: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Group B, Match 11, Asia Cup 2025
- Date: Thursday, 18 September 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM IST
- Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Format: T20 International (Asia Cup group stage)
Context & Stakes
This is a high-pressure encounter in the 2025 Asia Cup. For Afghanistan, this is a must-win match to keep their hopes alive for a place in the Super Four.
A loss will end their campaign. On the other hand, Sri Lanka is in a stronger position with back-to-back wins.
A victory here would secure their qualification and give them momentum going forward.
Pitch & Conditions
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi usually offers a balanced surface. Batters can score freely during the powerplay overs, but the pitch tends to slow down as the game progresses, bringing spinners into play.
- Average first innings score: Around 140–150 runs.
- Chasing record: Teams batting second have enjoyed slightly better success here.
- Weather: Hot and dry, with no major rain threats. Evening conditions may bring some dew, which could help chase sides.
Head-to-Head Record
- Total T20Is played: 8
- Sri Lanka wins: 5
- Afghanistan wins: 3
The head-to-head record shows Sri Lanka holding a slight edge, but Afghanistan have shown they can trouble the islanders, especially with their world-class spin attack.
Key Players to Watch
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka: In fine form at the top of the order, providing solid starts.
- Wanindu Hasaranga: Match-winner with both bat and ball, especially dangerous in the middle overs.
- Maheesh Theekshana: Effective with the new ball and in slowing down run rates.
Afghanistan
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Explosive opener capable of turning the game in a few overs.
- Ibrahim Zadran: A reliable batter who can anchor the innings under pressure.
- Rashid Khan: Afghanistan’s trump card with the ball, also a handy lower-order hitter.
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Charith Asalanka
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Chamika Karunaratne
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Matheesa Pathirana
- Dilshan Madushanka
Afghanistan
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Najibullah Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Karim Janat
- Rashid Khan (c)
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Noor Ahmad
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan: Match Prediction
Sri Lanka enters this contest as slight favourites thanks to their balanced squad and winning momentum.
Their spin trio of Hasaranga, Theekshana, and Shanaka adds depth and variety. Afghanistan, however, can never be counted out.
If Gurbaz fires at the top and Rashid Khan delivers with the ball, they have a strong chance of an upset.
Prediction: Sri Lanka to win narrowly, but expect a close contest if Afghanistan’s batting clicks.
Also read- Zimbabwe vs Namibia 3rd T20I – Time, Date, Analysis & Prediction
FAQ’s
When is the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan Asia Cup 2025 match scheduled?
The match will be played on 18 September 2025 at 8:00 PM IST in Abu Dhabi.
Where will the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan match take place?
The game will be hosted at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
What is the head-to-head record between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan in T20Is?
Out of 8 matches, Sri Lanka have won 5 while Afghanistan have won 3.
Who are the key players in this match?
For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga and Pathum Nissanka are crucial. For Afghanistan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Rashid Khan will be key.
Which team is likely to win?
Sri Lanka are slight favourites due to form and balance, but Afghanistan’s strong spin attack makes this a potential thriller.