Consolation win for SL as Ireland seal series 2-1  

Sri Lanka tour of Ireland (Third ODI)

Sri Lanka secured an eight-wicket consolation win in the third and final ODI against Ireland in Belfast yesterday, though Ireland sealed the series 2-1.

Having opted to field first, Sri Lanka started brilliantly with the ball as the opening fast bowler Achini Kulasuriya ripped through the Ireland top order, claiming 3 wickets inside first 5 overs. 

Inoshi Fernando and Ama Kanchana also struck once each as the hosts were staring down the barrel at 28 for 5 after first 15 overs. 

Ireland’s lower order showed some resistance in the second half of the innings to take their side to 122 runs. The Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapaththu and Achini Kulasuriya starred with the ball for the visitors, scalping 3 wickets each.  

During the chase, it was a walk in the park for the Asian Champions as they reached the target in 23.1 overs.

Sri Lanka experienced a tumultuous beginning, losing Vishmi Gunaratne (9) early in the innings. However, Chamari Athapatthu and Harshitha Samarawickrama formed a crucial partnership, accumulating 62 runs for the second wicket, which brought them closer to victory.  

The captain played a pivotal role in the run chase, scoring 48 runs off 49 balls before being dismissed just two runs shy of a well-deserved half-century.  
Following Chamari’s exit, Harshitha assumed responsibility and remained at the crease throughout the innings, guiding Sri Lanka to a comfortable victory.  

Harshitha finished the match unbeaten on 48 runs, while Kavisha Dilhari contributed a valuable 10*.

The Ireland Women’s team has undergone an exceptional nine-day period, commencing with their inaugural triumph against Sri Lanka Women in the second T20I at Pembroke.

This was succeeded by their historic acquisition of ICC Women’s Championship points in the initial matches, culminating in a series victory.

For Sri Lanka, this success will enhance their confidence as they approach the World Cup, and notably, it has allowed them to secure 10 points in the Super League.