In an electrifying first ODI between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, cricket aficionados witnessed a clash of titans, highlighted by stellar performances and record-breaking feats. Despite Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai’s historic partnership, the spotlight ultimately fell on Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka, whose remarkable double century overshadowed the valiant efforts of the Afghan duo.
At 39 years old, Nabi defied age norms, crafting a century that surpassed cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar’s record, while partnering with Omarzai to establish a new world record for the most runs added in ODIs after losing five wickets. However, Sri Lanka’s Nissanka stole the show with an unbeaten 210 runs off 136 balls, marking the first-ever double century for his nation in ODIs and setting a new record for the highest ODI score against Afghanistan.
Despite Afghanistan’s resilient response, rallying to a total of 339/6, their efforts fell short against Sri Lanka’s formidable score of 381/3, the third-highest in their ODI history. While Nabi’s century and Omarzai’s unbeaten 149 showcased their prowess, the match ultimately unfolded as a statistical marvel, with records tumbling and spectators treated to a display of skill and determination. Nissanka’s monumental innings will be remembered as the defining moment of the match, overshadowing Nabi and Omarzai’s historic partnership in the annals of cricketing history.