Afghanistan A beat India A by 4 runs in rain-hit tri-nation series opener

Afghanistan A secured a narrow 4-run victory over India A in the opening match of the Sri Lanka A Tri-Nation Series 2026, thanks to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method after rain interruptions. The match, held in Sri Lanka, saw India A invited to bat first and post a strong total of 349/9 in their allotted overs. Abdullah Ahmadzai was the standout bowler for Afghanistan A, claiming an impressive five wickets for 68 runs, while Farmanullah Safi contributed with three wickets.

Persistent rain significantly impacted the game. India A's innings was reduced by one over due to the weather. Further delays led to Afghanistan A facing a revised target of 294 runs within 38 overs. Despite the challenging target and the interruptions, Afghanistan A's batting lineup showed resilience.

Afghanistan A's chase began positively with a 63-run opening partnership. Captain Imran Mir anchored the innings, remaining unbeaten on 75, and found a crucial supporting partner in Baheer Shah, who was also unbeaten on 51. Their 108-run partnership was instrumental in keeping Afghanistan A ahead of the DLS par score throughout their innings. The match concluded prematurely due to more rain, with Afghanistan A declared winners by 4 runs under the DLS calculation.

Imran Mir was deservedly named Player of the Match for his stellar performance, contributing significantly with both bat and ball, including figures of 1/24*. Afghanistan A is set to play their next match against Sri Lanka A on Saturday, June 13, at the same venue.

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Afghanistan A produced a strong all-round performance to defeat India A by 4 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in a rain-affected opening match.