MR. EFFICIENT

THISARA PERERA

The hard-hitting all-rounder seems to have a knack for spoiling South Asian parties outside Sri Lanka. In 2014, he rescued Sri Lanka from a dire 67 for 8 in Mirpur with a smashing 80 off 57. Yesterday, his swashbuckling 47 off 26 ensured that Sri Lanka reach home despite having lost Mahela Jayawardene and Angelo Mathews in crucial moments. When he arrived at the crease Sri Lanka were in a precarious 178 for 6 in 42 overs. The required run-rate was above six. Instead of playing a cautious knock during the stage,  Perera smacked six fours and six to spoil Afghanistan's dreams.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source