Praises galore as Sri Lanka rattles Afghanistan

CWC19 | AFGvSL

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Sri Lanka managed to open their account with a much needed 2 points by rattling Afghans for 152, recording a 34-run victory at Cardiff after an embarrassing defeat by 10 wickets at hands of the Kiwis in their first match of the ICC World Cup 2019.

Photo Album – Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan | ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 – Match 07

Read: Pradeep, Malinga see off Afghan charge

The match was definitely a roller-coaster ride for Sri Lankans. When Kusal Perera was just flaying the Afghanistan attack all over the park and cantering through, everyone would have thought this is going to be one of those innings; a rare Sri Lankan 300+.

But this team did what they do so often; collapse spectacularly, from 1-144 to 201 all-out. The anger that burned through every Sri Lankan fan’s flesh wasn’t diminished by the cold drops from the heavens in Cardiff. Hazratullah Zazai and Mohammad Shahzad’s early charge at the experienced Sri Lanka pace double didn’t help either.

But somehow, through Nuwan Pradeep’s heartening spell of bowling and warrior Lasith Malinga’s last roar after his Yorker to Hamid Hassan, the Sri Lankans have had one of the best feelings, a rare moment when they enjoy watching cricket.

Watch: Video – Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka | CWC19 Match 7 Highlights

After the exciting win for Sri Lanka, former World Cup legend, Mahela Jayawardene couldn’t help but praise Nuwan Pradeep on social media.

Sri Lanka skipper Dimuth himself put out a post on twitter appreciating everyone’s efforts.

The voice behind the mic for Sri Lanka, Russel Arnold as dramatic as ever, couldn’t believe what was going on when the Sri Lankan batting was failing, but recovered after the victory.

Past and present cricketers, commentators, journalists have all credited both sides performances today, after an enthralling game.