Afghanistan’s Captain Rashid Khan was left reeling with disappointment after a six-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka on Thursday ended their Asia Cup campaign, dashing hopes of reaching the Super 4s. Despite high expectations and what Rashid called “great preparation,” the T20 World Cup semifinalists failed to advance from Group B, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh securing the spots alongside India and Pakistan.

“We had a great chance to chase 150-odd in the last game, but that’s T20 cricket,” a dejected Rashid told broadcasters post-match. “We worked hard, trained hard, and thought we’d at least make the next round after our World Cup semis run.” Afghanistan’s batting collapsed early, slumping to 79 for six, before Mohammad Nabi’s explosive 60 off 22 balls—featuring five sixes in a 32-run final over off Dunith Wellalage—lifted them to 169 for eight.

However, Rashid admitted their bowling faltered on an atypical Abu Dhabi pitch. “We didn’t bowl as well as we should have. Chasing 170-180 was possible, but it wasn’t our day,” he said, praising Nabi’s “unbelievable” heroics.

Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka hailed his team’s near-flawless performance, despite the costly final over. “It was almost a perfect game. Our pacers set the tone, and our fielding was top-notch,” he said, singling out Nuwan Thushara’s 4/18 and Kusal Perera’s stunning catches. “We aim to be the best fielding side in T20s—you have to catch everything in this format.” Thushara’s slingy swing dismantled Afghanistan’s top order, though Dushmantha Chameera leaked 50 runs, including 17 in the penultimate over to Nabi.

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Kusal Mendis, whose unbeaten 74 off 52 balls anchored Sri Lanka’s chase, credited teammate Kamindu Mendis (26 not out off 13) for easing the pressure in their 18.4-over finish. “The spinners bowled faster than expected, but Kamindu made it easier. We’re confident for the Super 4s,” he said, eyeing strong clashes ahead. With three wins, Sri Lanka topped Group B, while Bangladesh’s two victories secured their progression.

Rashid’s frustration underscored Afghanistan’s squandered potential, as their preparation couldn’t translate into consistency. As Sri Lanka and Bangladesh gear up for the Super 4s, Afghanistan heads home, left to rue missed opportunities in a tournament they were tipped to dominate.

Also Read: Sri Lanka Beat Afghanistan, Enter Asia Cup Super 4s