The Asia Cup 2025 has reached a thrilling stage, with all eyes on Dubai where Sri Lanka and Afghanistan face off in one of the most anticipated group matches on Thursday, September 18. A place in the Super Four is at stake.

Sri Lanka, the defending champions, have gone about their campaign with quiet discipline. They top Group B with four points and a healthy net run rate of +1.546 after back-to-back wins. Their batting has thrived on consistency at the top and composure in the middle overs, while their varied bowling attack has delivered at crucial moments.

Afghanistan, meanwhile, have shown glimpses of their growing strength. They thrashed Hong Kong in their opener before suffering a narrow eight-run defeat to Litton Das’ Bangladesh. They are currently third with two points and a net run rate of +2.150, the best amongst all three teams in the group.

The stakes in Dubai are immense. With Bangladesh also in the mix, the result of this clash will determine Group B’s final standings and the two teams advancing to the Super Four. Bangladesh beat Afghanistan but cannot control their own destiny; their fate now rests on the outcome of this final league game. Remarkably, even Sri Lanka—unbeaten so far—could still face elimination depending on how results unfold.

Here’s the qualification scenario in Group B of the Asia Cup

Bangladesh

Sri Lanka beat Afghanistan by any margin.

Afghanistan beat Sri Lanka by 70 or more runs.

Afghanistan beat Sri Lanka with 50 or more balls to spare.

Afghanistan

Afghanistan will qualify on a superior net run rate if they beat Sri Lanka in their final league game by any margin.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka beat Afghanistan by any margin.

Sri Lanka shouldn’t lose to Afghanistan by 70 or more runs.

Afghanistan shouldn’t chase down the target against Sri Lanka in 12.2 overs (50 balls) or fewer balls.

– Ends

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