SL vs AFG, 1st ODI: Pathum Nissanka Makes History with Record-breaking Double Ton

Pallekele: Pathum Nissanka etched his name in Sri Lankan cricket history on Friday, becoming the first player from the nation to score a double century in ODI cricket. His unbeaten 210 powered the hosts to a mammoth 381/3 against Afghanistan in the first match of their three-match series.

The young opener’s dominant innings included 20 fours and 8 sixes, coming off just 139 deliveries. This not only eclipsed the previous Sri Lankan record of 189 held by Sanath Jayasuriya since 2000 but also catapulted him into the company of legends, tying for the fifth-highest individual score in ODI history.

Nissanka’s heroics weren’t a solo effort. Avishka Fernando contributed a well-made 88, while Sadeera Samarawickrama chipped in with a brisk 44. The team’s total of 381/3 is their highest at Pallekele and the fourth-highest in their ODI history.

Despite winning the toss and electing to bowl, Afghanistan’s bowlers struggled to contain the Sri Lankan onslaught. Fareed Ahmad was the only bright spot, picking up two wickets, but the visitors were left chasing a daunting target.