Sri Lanka defeated Afghanistan by 34 runs in a well-fought match at Cardiff on Tuesday. 

Having won the toss, Afghanistan chose to bowl first. 

Sri Lanka started with a quick opening stand of 92 runs which was broken by Mohammad Nabi in 14th over. 

However, Sri Lanka lost quick wickets later; midway during the game, the play stopped after 33 overs due to rain when Sri Lanka 182/8. 

The match was reduced to 41 overs under D/L method as Sri Lanka were all out for 201 which meant Afghanistan was given a revised target of 187. 

Kushal Perera top scored for Sri Lanka with 78. 

Mohammad Nabi registered best bowling figures for Afghanistan 4/30 and was well supported by Rashid and Dawlat who took two wickets each.
 
In response, Afghanistan had a good start, but the middle order lost their wickets quickly. Skipper Gulbadin and Najib showed a good fight with a 66-run partnership for the 6th wicket. 

However, after their stand was broken, Afghanistan lost wickets quickly and were all out for 152 thus, conceding the match by 34 runs.
 
Nuwan Pradeep was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka picking up 4/31 while an impressive spell of 3/39 from Lasith Malinga supported him well. 

Pradeep was named player of the match.