News
Afghanistan edge Sri Lanka despite last over no-ball drama
Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka (Third T20I)
Afghanistan edge Sri Lanka by 3 runs, securing a consolation win in the 3rd T20I held in Dambulla on Wednesday (21).
Unfortunately for the hosts, they were unable to achieve a clean sweep, which must have been disappointing for them.
Despite already losing the series, the Afghan team entered the match with a fearless attitude. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Hazratullah Zazai provided a brilliant start for the visitors, forming a partnership of 88 runs for the opening wicket in just 7.2 overs.
Zazai departed after scoring a quickfire 45 off 22 deliveries, but Gurbaz continued his impressive performance, contributing 70 runs off 43 balls, including 7 fours and 1 six. Thanks to their strong opening stand, Afghanistan posted a formidable total of 209 for 5 on the scoreboard.
Azmatullah Omarzai added 31 runs off 23 balls, while Mohammad Ishaq played a crucial unbeaten cameo of 16 runs. Sri Lanka’s Matheesha Pathirana and Akila Dananjaya managed to take 2 wickets each, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Afghanistan’s victory.
Sri Lanka had a strong start to their run-chase with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis forming a solid opening partnership of 64 runs. Nissanka was the main contributor, scoring 60 runs off 30 balls with 8 fours and 2 sixes.
However, after Nissanka had to retire hurt, Sri Lanka faced some difficulties. Sadeera Samarawickrama and skipper Wanindu Hasaranga scored 23 and 13 runs respectively before being dismissed.
Despite Kamindu Mendis’ valiant effort to bring the target down to 10 off the last 2 balls, Sri Lanka fell short of victory. Mendis remained not out on 65 runs off 39 balls with 7 fours and 2 sixes.
The most disputed moment of the match unfolded on the fourth delivery of the last over. Wafadar Momand bowled a full toss, prompting Mendis to move out of the crease as the ball sailed past his shoulders. Despite Mendis’ plea for a no-ball, the umpire did not acknowledge it, leading to Sri Lanka not adding any runs. While the no-ball controversy influenced Sri Lanka’s loss, the subpar showings from the middle order were equally instrumental in their downfall.
Mohammad Nabi stood out among the Afghan bowlers, finishing with figures of 4-0-35-2. Gurbaz was awarded the Player of the Match for his impressive performance at the top of the order.
Brief Score: Afghanistan 209/5 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 70, Hazratullah Zazai 45; Hazratullah Zazai 2-37) vs Sri Lanka 206/6 (Pathum Nissanka retired hurt 60, Kamindu Mendis 65*; Mohammad Nabi 2-35).
Cricket
Chamindu Wickramasinghe’s bowling action under scrutiny?
Sri Lankan fast bowler Chamindu Wickramasinghe has come under the spotlight after his bowling action was officially reported as suspicious during a recent domestic encounter.
The incident occurred in a match of the National Super League held from April 6 to 9, where the Dambulla side faced Colombo. Wickramasinghe, representing Dambulla, drew attention from match officials, prompting concerns over the legality of his action.

The on-field umpires, Deepal Gunawardena and Ravindra Wimalasiri, made the report in accordance with standard procedures. Match referee Manoj Mendis also oversaw the process, ensuring that all regulations were followed.
Following the report, the matter has been referred to the Sri Lanka Cricket High Performance Unit for further assessment. Wickramasinghe may now be required to undergo biomechanical testing to determine whether his bowling action complies with the laws of the game.
Cricket
Sri Lanka lasses continue to impress
Sri Lanka Under-19 Women extended their impressive run in the Tri-Series with a composed four-wicket victory over Australia Women Under-19 cricket team at Bill Pippen Oval Today.
After being put in to bat, Australia U-19 struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. Ayla Johnson top-scored with 18 off 29 balls, while Alyssa Dermody added a quick 13. However, regular wickets halted their progress as they finished on a modest 91 for 9 in 20 overs. Limansa Thilakarathne led the bowling effort with an impressive 3 for 26, well supported by Chamudi Praboda, who claimed 2 for 21.
In response, Sri Lanka Women Under-19 cricket team chased down the target with 92 for 6 in 19.3 overs. Despite a few setbacks, Pramudi Methsara anchored the innings with an unbeaten 21 off 17 balls, while Danodya Sewmini contributed a steady 14. Australia’s Filippa Suesee (3 for 18) and Ira Aery (2 for 13) fought hard, but Sri Lanka held their nerve.
News
Football Chief Jaswar Umar Enters Race for NOC Presidency
Jaswar Umar, President of the Football Federation of Sri Lanka, has officially submitted his nomination to contest for the presidency of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.
Umar becomes the fourth candidate in the race, joining Shirantha Peiris, Deva Henry, and Asanga Seneviratne, who are also contesting for the top position in the country’s Olympic body.
His time as football chief has created divided opinions among sports professionals who evaluate his performance. On one hand, Sri Lanka’s national team has shown improvement in international results, including a rise in the FIFA rankings from 204 to 191, along with notable performances against stronger opposition.
However, his approach has also faced criticism. Stakeholders have raised concerns over the increased reliance on Sri Lankan-origin overseas players, with claims that it has limited opportunities for local talent. The long-term vision for developing youth and building grassroots football programs has become a subject of public inquiry.
Umar now aims to advance his career through NOC while he leads Sri Lankan football with both positive results and ongoing public criticism of his work.
The upcoming election will become a competitive battle because four candidates will vie for control of a key position which holds major power within the country’s sports system.
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