Aoba Tanaka 
In a sensational showdown at Pallekele on Friday (February 9), Pathum Nissanka’s historic double century (210* off 139), the first by a Sri Lankan in ODIs, guided the home team to a gripping 42-run triumph over Afghanistan in the opening match of the three-game ODI series. Nissanka’s stellar performance, complemented by Pramod Madushan’s four-wicket haul, proved decisive, overshadowing remarkable centuries from Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi (136 off 130) and Azmatullah Omarzai (149* off 115).
Despite the tourists facing an early setback at 55/5 within the first ten overs, Nabi and Omarzai’s remarkable 242-run partnership kept Afghanistan in the hunt. However, the daunting target of 382 proved insurmountable, especially after the challenging start.
Nissanka’s spectacular innings stole the spotlight, as the opener, returning from injury, showcased flawless strokeplay. Teaming up with Avishka Fernando, the duo crafted a formidable 182-run opening partnership at an impressive rate. Fernando’s run-a-ball 88 set the stage, but it was Nissanka’s sublime display that shattered Sanath Jayasuriya’s 24-year-old Sri Lankan record for the highest individual score.
As skipper Kusal Mendis struggled to find his rhythm, Nissanka shifted gears and partnered effectively with Sadeera Samarawickrama, amassing a brisk 120-run stand off just 71 balls. Boundaries and sixes flowed freely, leaving Afghanistan helpless. Nissanka’s aggression propelled him into the coveted double century club, setting a new benchmark for Sri Lankan batsmanship.
In response, Afghanistan faced a daunting task, and Pramod Madushan’s triple strike with the new ball added to their woes. By the ninth over, the visitors had lost half their side but showed resilience through Omarzai and Nabi. The duo navigated the innings with patience, gradually accelerating towards the end. However, Sri Lanka’s spinners, Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, bowled efficiently, keeping the run rate in check and contributing to the eventual victory.
Although Omarzai and Nabi displayed commendable resilience, the early onslaught in the initial overs proved to be the decisive factor as Sri Lanka secured a thrilling win in the opening encounter of the ODI series.
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