**Nuwan Thushara Claims His 3rd Four-Wicket Haul in T20Is**
*Stats & Highlights | By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 18, 2025, 11:13 PM*
Sri Lankan pacer Nuwan Thushara delivered a stunning bowling performance against Afghanistan in Match 11 of the Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 held in Abu Dhabi. Thushara picked up 4 wickets for just 18 runs in his full quota of 4 overs, showcasing his skill and precision on the big stage.
Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 169/8 in their 20 overs, setting Sri Lanka a target of 170 runs to chase. Thushara’s fiery spell played a crucial role in restricting the opposition and putting Sri Lanka in a strong position.
**Wickets and Key Moments**
Thushara opened the bowling for Sri Lanka and made an early impact, striking twice in his second over. He dismissed opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who attempted an aggressive shot, and soon after bowled Karim Janat. Continuing his momentum, Thushara took down Sediqullah Atal with a brilliant delivery in his third over during the powerplay.
He then struck again in the 17th over, taking a wicket off the very first ball, completing a memorable four-wicket haul that helped choke Afghanistan’s scoring rate.
**Performance Stats**
This four-wicket haul marks Thushara’s third such instance in T20 Internationals and his fifth overall in T20 matches. With this performance, he has now claimed 35 wickets from 25 T20Is at an impressive average of 18.28.
On a broader scale, according to ESPNcricinfo, Thushara has accumulated 169 wickets in 127 T20 matches at an average of 19.71. His T20 career also features two five-wicket hauls alongside his five four-wicket hauls, underscoring his impact as a leading pacer in the format.
**Notable Achievements**
– This is Thushara’s second four-wicket haul against Afghanistan in T20Is, having taken two four-fers in just three matches against them, with an outstanding average of 10.37.
– He is now the second Sri Lankan pacer to claim a four-wicket haul in the Men’s T20 Asia Cup, following Pramod Madushan’s four-for against Pakistan in 2022.
Nuwan Thushara’s continued excellence with the ball highlights his key role in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, and fans will be eager to see more match-winning performances from the young pacer in the coming games.
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