Afghanistan beat Sri Lanka by six wickets

Afghanistan defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the first One Day International (ODI) match of the series played in Hambantota on Friday (June 2).

The visitors chased down a target of 268 runs with ease, thanks to brilliant fifties by opener Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmath Sha.

Afghanistan won the toss and elected to field first and restricted Sri Lanka to a modest total of 268 in their allotted 50 overs.

Charith Asalanka (91) along with Dhananjaya De Silva (51) rescued Sri Lanka after the top order failed losing 4/86.

In reply, Afghanistan got off to a shaky start, losing opener Gubaz early.

However, Zadran and Rahmat Shah steadied the innings with a brilliant partnership for the second wicket. Zadran was the star of the show, as he smashed a brilliant 98 off just 94 balls.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their performance, as they look to bounce back in the remaining two matches of the series.

The second ODI between the two teams will be played on Sunday, at the same venue in Hambantota.

Afghanistan will be looking to continue their winning momentum and seal the series, while Sri Lanka will be hoping to level the series and keep their hopes alive.