Chamari Athapaththu’s calm innings of 63 runs set the stage for Sri Lanka’s exciting 3-wicket victory over Pakistan in the semi-final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 held at Dambulla International Stadium on Friday. The win has now paved the way for Sri Lanka to face defending champions India in the final on Sunday. Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first, allowing Pakistan to bat. Pakistan managed to score 140-4 in their 20 overs, and Sri Lanka successfully chased down the target in 19.5 overs, largely due to Chamari Athapaththu’s impressive half-century.
Pakistan’s opening pair, Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali, established a strong partnership, accumulating 61 runs before Feroza was dismissed for 25 runs by Udeshika Prabodhani. Muneeba also fell in the same over after scoring 37 runs off 34 balls. Sidra Amin, batting at number three, was unable to make a significant contribution, scoring 10 runs off 13 deliveries before being dismissed. Captain Nida Dar played a quick innings, scoring 23 runs off 17 balls. Fatima Sana (23 off 17) and Aliya Riaz (16 off 15) also made valuable contributions towards Pakistan’s total of 141 runs. Sri Lanka’s Udeshika Prabodhani and Kavisha Dilhari each took two wickets.
In reply, Sri Lanka had a poor beginning, losing two quick wickets in the initial four overs. Nonetheless, captain Chamari Athapaththu anchored the innings with a vital score of 63 runs before departing in crucial time of the game.
However, Anushka Sanjeewani who held her ground until the end, played a crucial role of unbeaten 24 runs to push Sri Lanka over the line with a ball to spare.
In bowling front, Sadia Iqbal shone as the top bowler for Pakistan, taking four wickets. Nida Dar and Omaima Sohail also chipped in with one wicket each.
Sri Lanka is set to compete against India in the final match on July 28th in Dambulla.