Afghanistan A triumphed in the Emerging Asia Cup, defeating Sri Lanka A in a low-scoring final held at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground. This victory not only marked a significant achievement for Afghanistan A but also highlighted their bowling prowess throughout the tournament. Following a remarkable semi-final win against India A, Afghanistan’s bowlers once again played a crucial role in securing the title.

Afghanistan A’s bowling brilliance sets the tone in the final

Afghanistan A’s bowling attack established dominance from the outset of the final match. Sri Lanka A faced immense pressure and struggled to form stable partnerships as they attempted to build their innings. Sahan Arachchige emerged as the lone warrior for Sri Lanka, scoring an unbeaten 64 runs off 47 balls. However, his efforts were not enough to propel his team to a competitive total, as Afghanistan’s bowlers stifled their scoring opportunities effectively. Bilal Sami delivered an outstanding performance, taking 3 wickets for just 22 runs, while Allah Ghazanfar maintained an impressive economy rate with figures of 2 for 14. The pitch at Al Amerat proved challenging for both teams, contributing to the low scores. Sri Lanka A managed to post only 133 runs, a total that would require exceptional bowling to defend.

Also WATCH: Sediqullah Atal seals the deal for Afghanistan A with a maximum against Sri Lanka A in Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024

Afghanistan A’s easy chase after a shaky start to the total

Afghanistan A’s innings began with an unexpected twist when opener Zubaid Akbari was dismissed for a golden duck on the very first ball. This early setback could have derailed their chase; however, Sediqullah Atal showcased remarkable composure at the crease. His steady knock of 55 runs off 55 balls provided much-needed stability and allowed Afghanistan to recover from the initial shock.

Despite losing Akbari early, Atal’s resilience and tactical approach helped Afghanistan navigate through difficult phases of their innings. The Sri Lankan bowlers struggled to capitalize on their early success, managing only three dismissals throughout Afghanistan’s innings. As Afghanistan approached the target, Mohammad Ishfaq stepped up to guide his team home with a calm finish. His controlled batting ensured that Afghanistan reached their target with 11 balls to spare, sealing a seven-wicket victory. The combination of Atal’s anchoring innings and Ishfaq’s composed finish underscored the depth and talent within Afghanistan’s batting lineup.

Significance of the victory

This triumph is monumental for Afghanistan A as it underscores the burgeoning talent within their ranks. The team’s balanced approach—marked by exceptional bowling and resilient batting—demonstrates significant growth on the international stage. The performances of players like Sami and Ghazanfar were pivotal not just in this match but throughout the tournament, showcasing their potential to impact senior cricket in the future.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Afghans are a #Champion Nation by nature 🏆 Congratulations 🎊🎉🎈 on yet another historical victory ✌️ for #Afganistan , the resilient nation that never ceases to to rise to the heights of its pinnacles.#AfghanAtalan #GloriousTeam #AFGVSL pic.twitter.com/M0F8TFZdhG

— 𝐊𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐠🇦🇫 (@Kali_Vardag) October 27, 2024

🇮🇳❤️🇦🇫💯
Victory ✌️
Alhamdulilah We are champions of Asia.#AFGVSL pic.twitter.com/dtU8cFdfam

— Wahida Afghan 🇦🇫 (@Kabuli_girl) October 27, 2024

Well Deserved, So Happy For Team Afghan, Congratulations🥳🇦🇫

Well played Champion team👏@ACBofficials #AFGVSL pic.twitter.com/XPHjkyaecI

— Fawad Khan (@intofawadkhan5) October 27, 2024

Afghanistan won T20 emerging teams Asia Cup

What a moment for Afghanistan brothers and sisters

Enjoy these moments ❤️#AFGVSLpic.twitter.com/64p4Fe1dS9

— Ash (@Ashsay_) October 27, 2024

Congratulations Afghanistan 💙#AsiaCup #AFGVSL pic.twitter.com/BUZfEHPg8t

— Muhammad Noman (@nomanedits) October 27, 2024

🚨 HISTORY AT OMAN 🚨

AFGHANISTAN WON THE EMERGING ASIA CUP 2024 🏆

Congratulations, Team Afghanistan, Champion of Asia.#Afghanistan #MensT20EmergingTeamsAsiaCup2024 #AFGVSL pic.twitter.com/YoE7o4g91W

— Manish (@Manish20660525) October 27, 2024

Congratulations, Afghanistan for Winning Emerging Teams Asia Cup.. Well Deserved Victory…#EmergingAsiaCup #AFGVSL pic.twitter.com/WPrnIrWjBS

— Azlaan Khan 🇵🇰 (@IAm_Khan71) October 27, 2024

🚨 HISTORY AT OMAN 🚨

AFGHANISTAN WON THE EMERGING ASIA CUP 2024 🏆

One of the Greatest days in Afghanistan cricket, What a story. pic.twitter.com/QghkO1Y8NX

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 27, 2024

AFGHANISTAN A WITH THE EMERGING ASIA CUP 2024 🏆#AFGVSL pic.twitter.com/CXixOhLkID

— Ujjwal Kumar Gupta (@UjjwalkumarG) October 27, 2024

Congratulates Team Afghanistan 🎉🎊🥳🫡❤️🇦🇫❤️🏏💪🏻🔥🏆@ICC @ACBofficials #AFGvSL pic.twitter.com/pqEx4XKvHG

— Tanbir Hossain Safui (@TanbirH77992362) October 27, 2024

Also WATCH: Ramandeep Singh takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Yasir Khan during IND A vs PAK A clash at Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024

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