SL-A vs AFG-A Playing 11, Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 Final: Sri Lanka A vs Afghanistan A Predicted XI, Team News

SL-A vs AFG-A Final Playing 11: The Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 will reach its climax as Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A prepare to lock horns in the final showdown.

Both teams have been remarkable in their campaigns, and this match promises a thrilling contest under the lights at Al Amerat Cricket Ground on October 27, 2024.

Match Information

Date: Sunday, October 27, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM IST
Venue: Al Amerat Cricket Ground, Oman
Broadcast: Star Sports 1 (India)
Live Stream: Disney+ Hotstar (India)

Also read: Sri Lanka A vs Afghanistan A: The Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 Final Preview

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Al Amerat Cricket Ground is known for its batting-friendly conditions, with an average score of around 170. The sunny weather expected for the final is likely to support pace bowlers in the early overs, while spin could play a role later in the innings. Teams batting first have enjoyed success here, but a high-scoring encounter is on the cards.

Sri Lanka A: Nuwanidu Fernando’s side enters the final on a three-match winning streak, with key performances by batsmen Lahiru Udara and Ahan Wickramasinghe. Their bowling has been equally formidable, led by Dushan Hemantha, who will be pivotal against Afghanistan’s strong batting lineup.

Afghanistan A: Afghanistan A, under the captaincy of Darwish Rasooli, has impressed throughout, notably by eliminating tournament favorites India A. Batsmen Sediqullah Atal and Zubaid Akbari have been in top form, while the bowling unit, led by Abdul Rahman, will aim to contain Sri Lanka’s in-form top order.

Key Players

Sri Lanka A

Lahiru Udara: A powerful wicket-keeper batter, Udara’s quick scoring ability makes him an asset at the top of the order. His 43 off 20 balls in the semi-final was instrumental in securing Sri Lanka A's spot in the final. Expect him to be aggressive from the start, putting pressure on Afghanistan’s bowlers.

Ahan Wickramasinghe: A reliable middle-order batter, Wickramasinghe’s composed innings of 52 from 46 balls in the semi-final demonstrated his skill in holding the innings together. He will be crucial in stabilizing the middle order, especially if Sri Lanka loses early wickets.

Dushan Hemantha: The standout bowler for Sri Lanka A, Hemantha has claimed 14 wickets across four matches, making him the tournament’s top wicket-taker. His tight economy and ability to take wickets under pressure make him a formidable force in the final.

Nuwanidu Fernando (Captain): Leading from the front, Fernando has been consistent with the bat, scoring 104 runs in four games. As the skipper, his experience and tactical acumen will be pivotal in guiding Sri Lanka A through this crucial encounter.

Ramesh Mendis: Known for his all-round abilities, Mendis contributes both with bat and ball, maintaining a high strike rate of 160. His versatility will allow Sri Lanka A to adapt according to match situations, adding depth to both their batting and bowling.

Afghanistan A

Sediqullah Atal: The prolific opener has been in extraordinary form, scoring 313 runs in just four matches. His match-winning 83 off 52 balls against India A in the semi-final highlights his capability to dominate bowlers, making him a top contender for Player of the Match.

Zubaid Akbari: Akbari’s 64 off 41 balls against India A set the tone for Afghanistan’s high score in the semi-final. His aggressive approach at the top makes him one of Afghanistan A’s most dangerous players, especially in the powerplay.

Abdul Rahman: Rahman has been Afghanistan A’s most effective bowler with five wickets in just two matches. His ability to break partnerships makes him a key player to watch, especially if Sri Lanka A’s batters start building momentum.

Darwish Rasooli (Captain): Rasooli’s leadership and middle-order presence have been essential for Afghanistan A. Although he didn’t score big in the semi-final, his experience in pressure situations could be a game-changer in the final.

Karim Janat: Known for his all-round prowess, Janat’s quick 41 off 20 balls against India A added significant depth to the Afghanistan lineup. His power-hitting and ability to contribute with the ball give Afghanistan an edge in the lower order.

Team News

Both teams are expected to field full-strength sides with no injury concerns reported ahead of the final.

SL-A vs AFG-A Predicted Playing 11

Sri Lanka A: Lahiru Udara (wk), Pawan Rathnayake, Nuwanidu Fernando (C), Ahan Wickramasinghe, Yashodha Lanka, Sahan Arachchige, Ramesh Mendis, Dushan Hemantha, Nimesh Vimukthi, Eshan Malinga, Nipun Ransika

Afghanistan A: Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Darwish Rasooli (C), Sediqullah Atal, Shahidullah Kamal, Karim Janat, Zubaid Akbari, Abdul Rahman, Allah Mohammad, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Qais Ahmad, Bilal Sami

Sri Lanka A vs Afghanistan A Full Squad

Sri Lanka A

Lahiru Udara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Yashodha Lanka, Lasith Croospulle, Sahan Arachchige, Pawan Rathnayake, Ahan Wickramasinghe, Dinura Kalupahana, Kavindu Nadeeshan, Ramesh Mendis, Dushan Hemantha, Nimesh Vimukthi, Nipun Ransika, Isitha Wijesundera, Eshan Malinga

Afghanistan A

Sediqullah Atal, Qais Ahmad, Zubaid Akbari, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Faridoon Dawoodzai, Allah Ghazanfar, Mohammad Ishaq, Karim Janat, Nangeyalia Kharote, Abdul Rahman, Bilal Sami, Numan Shah, Shahidullah Kamal, Wafiullah Tarakhil, Darwish Rasooli