In a gripping match that captivated the entire nation, Sri Lankan Women achieved a stunning victory over Pakistan Women to earn a place in the Women’s Asia Cup final.
Pakistan batted first and set a target of 141 runs, with Sadia Iqbal delivering a standout performance by taking four key wickets. Despite this, Sri Lanka remained resolute.
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Pakistan made early inroads, dismissing two Sri Lankan batters quickly. However, Athapaththu anchored the innings with a vital 63 off 48 balls, featuring nine boundaries and a six. Her innings was crucial in pushing Sri Lanka towards the target.
A pivotal 59-run partnership between Athapaththu and Kavisha Dilhari, along with a 42-run stand with Anushka Sanjeewani (24 not out, 22 balls, 1×4, 1×6), solidified Sri Lanka’s chase. Sanjeewani’s calm presence ensured the team reached their goal.
Sadia Iqbal led Pakistan’s bowling attack with career-best figures of 4 for 16, while Omaima Sohail and Nida Dar each took one wicket.
Pakistan’s innings began strongly with a 61-run opening stand between Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali. Gull scored 25 off 24 balls, and Muneeba added 37 off 34 balls with five fours.
The middle order contributed with Sidra Amin and Nida Dar adding 30 runs for the third wicket. Nida scored 23 off 17 balls, including two fours and a six.
The innings concluded with a 41-run unbroken partnership between Aliya Riaz (16 not out, 15 balls, 1×6) and Fatima Sana (23 not out, 17 balls, 3x4s).
Sri Lanka’s bowlers, Udeshika Prabodhani and Kavisha Dilhari, each claimed two wickets, giving away 23 and 30 runs respectively.
