Charith Asalanka, one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable middle-order batters, has developed a steady record against Afghanistan across formats. His performances have played a vital role in Sri Lanka’s contests against the Afghan side, especially in high-pressure Asia Cup and bilateral series matches. Let’s take a closer look at his ODI and T20 records vs Afghanistan and his impact at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
Charith Asalanka vs Afghanistan: ODI Stats
Asalanka has played several crucial innings against Afghanistan in ODIs, showcasing resilience in the middle order.
ODI Batting Record vs Afghanistan
| Match Date | Venue | Runs | Balls | SR | Dismissal | Result/Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Nov 2022 | Pallekele | 10 (18) | 55.56 | c Zadran b Naib | Early struggle | |
| 30 Nov 2022 | Pallekele | 83 (72)* | 115.28 | Not out | Match-saving knock | |
| 02 Jun 2023 | Hambantota | 91 (95) | 95.79 | Run out | Dominant batting | |
| 04 Jun 2023 | Hambantota | 6 (12) | 50.00 | lbw Nabi | Early dismissal | |
| 05 Sep 2023 | Gaddafi Stadium | 36 (43) | 83.72 | c&b Rashid Khan | Asia Cup clash | |
| 09 Feb 2024 | Pallekele | 7* (8) | 87.50 | Not out | Steady finish | |
| 11 Feb 2024 | Pallekele | 97 (74)* | 131.08 | Not out | Match-winning knock | |
| 14 Feb 2024 | Pallekele | 7* (13) | 53.85 | Not out | Anchored chase |
Overall ODI Stats vs Afghanistan:
- Matches: 9
- Runs: 359
- Average: 71.80
- Strike Rate: 98.90
- 50s: 3 | 90+ Scores: 2 | Not Outs: 4
Asalanka’s consistency is evident, with multiple not-out innings and match-winning performances, including his unbeaten 97*.
Charith Asalanka vs Afghanistan: T20I Stats
While Asalanka’s T20 record vs Afghanistan is not as heavy as ODIs, he has still contributed with some crucial runs.
Charith Asalanka vs Afghanistan: T20 Batting Record
| Match Date | Venue | Runs | Balls | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Aug 2022 | Dubai | 0 (1) | 0.00 | lbw Farooqi |
| 03 Sep 2022 | Sharjah | 8 (14) | 57.14 | b Nabi |
| 01 Nov 2022 | Brisbane | 19 (18) | 105.56 | c Omarzai b Rashid |
| 17 Feb 2024 | Dambulla | 3 (7) | 42.86 | c Gurbaz b Noor Ahmad |
| 19 Feb 2024 | Dambulla | 4 (8) | 50.00 | c Naveen b Omarzai |
Overall T20I Stats vs Afghanistan:
- Matches: 5
- Runs: 34
- Average: 6.80
- Strike Rate: 70.83
His T20 record vs Afghanistan remains modest, showing struggles against their strong spin attack led by Rashid Khan and Nabi.
Read Also:- Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head T20 Stats & Records
Bowling Record vs Afghanistan
Though primarily a batter, Asalanka has bowled on a few occasions against Afghanistan.
Bowling Figures
- T20I (Dubai 2022): 0.1 overs, 0/1
- ODI (Pallekele 2024): 0.3 overs, 0/3 and 3.0 overs, 0/17
Bowling remains only a part-time option for him, with limited impact.
Charith Asalanka at Sheikh Zayed Stadium
Asalanka has had limited outings at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
- T20I (2021 vs West Indies): 68 (41), a brilliant knock with a strike rate of 165+.
- T20I (2025 vs Bangladesh): 10* (4), a quick cameo.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Record:
- Matches: 2 (T20I)
- Runs: 78
- Average: 78.00
- Strike Rate: 173.33
His record at Abu Dhabi is strong, with an explosive fifty against West Indies and finishing touches in 2025.
Impact Against Afghanistan
- ODIs: Asalanka has been a consistent run-scorer with an average above 70, making him one of Sri Lanka’s best against Afghanistan in this format.
- T20Is: He has struggled to dominate Afghanistan’s bowlers, particularly their spinners.
- Sheikh Zayed Stadium: Limited but impactful performances, suggesting he adapts well to Abu Dhabi conditions.
Conclusion
Charith Asalanka has proven to be a game-changer in ODIs against Afghanistan, with several match-winning knocks and a remarkable average. His T20 numbers remain modest, but his strong performances at Sheikh Zayed Stadium highlight his ability to shine in key venues. Going forward, Asalanka’s consistency in ODIs will continue to make him a vital player for Sri Lanka against Afghanistan.
