Australia Women kicked off their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign in style, securing a comfortable six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka Women. The six-time champions, including winners of the last three editions, displayed their dominance with both bat and ball at Sharjah, restricting Sri Lanka to 93/7 and chasing the target in just 14.2 overs.

Megan Schutt and Sophie Molineux shine with the ball

Australia’s bowling attack, led by Megan Schutt and Sophie Molineux, was in complete control during Sri Lanka’s innings. Schutt’s impressive spell of 3/12 dismantled the top order, including the key wicket of opener Vishmi Gunaratne. Meanwhile, Molineux’s 2/20 kept Sri Lanka in check and her crucial caught-and-bowled dismissal of Harshitha Samarawickrama halted any momentum the Sri Lankan side tried to build.

 

 

 

 

 

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Beth Mooney anchors Australia’s chase

Beth Mooney proved to be the backbone of Australia's batting effort, staying calm after early setbacks. After a shaky powerplay that saw Australia lose three wickets, Mooney held her ground with an unbeaten 43 off 38 balls. She formed a crucial partnership with Ashleigh Gardner to bring stability, and alongside Phoebe Litchfield, finished the chase with ease, reaching the target with 34 balls remaining.

 

 

 

 

 

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Harshitha Samarawickrama shows fight for Sri Lanka

While Sri Lanka struggled to get going, Harshitha Samarawickrama put up a fight with a patient 23 and stitched a useful partnership with Nilakshika Silva. Silva remained not out on 29 off 40 balls, but their slow scoring rate allowed the Australian bowlers to maintain pressure throughout. Despite these efforts, Sri Lanka’s 93/7 wasn’t enough to challenge the defending champions.

 

 

 

 

 

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