The SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 is a crucial Group B clash at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Both Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are eyeing a spot in the Super Four, making this contest highly significant. With Afghanistan’s renowned spin trio and Sri Lanka’s balanced squad, the game promises world-class cricket action.
Venue – Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Date – Sep 18, 2025
Time – 8:00 PM, 02:30 PM GMT / 06:30 PM LOCAL
Fans tracking fixtures can follow the Asia Cup schedule and points table to see how this result shapes Group B standings.
“Big games are won by small moments. In Abu Dhabi, one wicket or one six could decide the outcome.”
Team News and Updates
Sri Lanka
Led by Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka boasts a blend of experience and youth. Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka anchor the batting, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana lead the spin attack. Their key challenge will be countering Afghanistan’s spinners on a slow track. For more team updates, visit Sri Lanka official squad info.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan, fresh from a 94-run win over Hong Kong, enters this match with confidence. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman form their lethal spin trio. Their explosive batting, led by Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, makes them a side capable of upsets. More details about Afghanistan cricket can be seen on the Afghanistan Cricket Board page.
Probable Playing XI
| Sri Lanka Probable XI | Afghanistan Probable XI |
|---|---|
| Kusal Mendis (wk) | Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) |
| Pathum Nissanka | Ibrahim Zadran |
| Kamil Mishara | Sediqullah Atal |
| Kusal Perera | Azmatullah Omarzai |
| Charith Asalanka (c) | Mohammad Nabi |
| Dasun Shanaka | Rashid Khan (c) |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | Gulbadin Naib |
| Maheesh Theekshana | Karim Janat |
| Dushmantha Chameera | Mujeeb Ur Rahman |
| Matheesha Pathirana | Naveen-ul-Haq |
| Binura Fernando | Fazalhaq Farooqi |
Head-to-Head Record
- Matches Played: 8
- Sri Lanka Wins: 5
- Afghanistan Wins: 3
In their last five meetings, Sri Lanka leads 3–2. Afghanistan’s big highlight was their victory in the Asia Cup 2022, proving they can challenge the islanders.
Asia Cup 2025 Form Guide
- Sri Lanka: Yet to play in this Asia Cup but came in strong after a dominant series against Zimbabwe.
- Afghanistan: Began their campaign with a huge win over Hong Kong, highlighting their batting depth and spin firepower.
For more fixtures, explore T20 Asia Cup 2025 updates.
Key Player Battles
- Pathum Nissanka vs. Fazalhaq Farooqi: A tactical contest of elegant stroke play against swinging pace.
- Wanindu Hasaranga vs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Spin mastery versus fearless batting.
- Matheesha Pathirana vs. Rashid Khan: Death bowling against lower-order finishing power.
“When Afghanistan and Sri Lanka meet, expect fireworks — spinners, sixes, and pressure moments.”
Players to Watch Out For
- Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka): A genuine match-winner with both bat and ball.
- Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): The key to Afghanistan’s success with his world-class spin.
Expert Opinions and SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 Match Prediction
Experts believe this will be a nail-biting contest. Sri Lanka have the more stable batting unit, while Afghanistan’s spin trio could dominate Abu Dhabi conditions. Ultimately, the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan Asia Cup 2025 match prediction leans slightly towards Sri Lanka, but Afghanistan’s unpredictability makes them dangerous.
Pitch and Weather Report
- Pitch: Balanced wicket with early movement and spin-friendly surface later.
- Weather: Hot and humid, around 32°C. No rain, but dew likely to affect the second innings.
SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 Live Streaming
Fans can follow the SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 live streaming and broadcast here:
| Country | TV Channels / Media | Apps / Online Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan | ACB Media | ACB Media App |
| Sri Lanka | Channel Eye, Dialog TV, PeoTV | Dialog ViU App, SLRC Online, PeoTV Go |
Conclusion
The SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 match in Abu Dhabi is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling group stage contests. Sri Lanka will rely on their batting depth, while Afghanistan aim to spin their way to another famous victory. With Super Four spots on the line, fans can expect nothing less than drama and intensity under the floodlights.
FAQs on SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025
When is the SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 match?
The match is scheduled for September 18, 2025, in Abu Dhabi.
Who has the better head-to-head record?
Sri Lanka lead 5–3 in T20 meetings against Afghanistan.
Where to watch SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 live streaming?
Fans can stream the game on SonyLIV and FanCode, ACB Media App, while Sony Sports will broadcast on TV, Dialog ViU App, SLRC Online, PeoTV Go.
What is the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan playing 11 Asia Cup prediction?
Probable lineups include Hasaranga, Nissanka for Sri Lanka, and Rashid Khan, Gurbaz for Afghanistan.
What is the SL vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 match prediction?
Experts favor Sri Lanka, but Afghanistan’s spinners could turn the tide.