Sri Lanka defeat Pakistan in openig Asia Cup match

Hosts Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 16 runs, despite a century from Shahid Afridi, to win the opening Asia Cup match at Rangiri Dambulla Stadium a short while ago.



Set a victory target of 243, Pakistan were bowled out for 227 with 21 deliveries remaining against the bowling of Lasith Malinga five for 34



Afridi slammed 109 from 76 deliveries in Pakistan’s total.



Earlier, fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar celebrated his return to international cricket with three wickets to help Pakistan restrict Sri Lanka to 242 for 9 off their allotted 50 overs.



Allrounder Anjelo Mathews made an unbeaten 55 under pressure and with former captain Mahela Jayawardene, who hit 54, gave Sri Lanka a competitive total on a slow pitch.



India and Bangladesh are the other teams participating in the championship.