After winning the toss and electing to bat, India's openers, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, provided a strong foundation with a 98-run partnership. Mandhana showcased her class with a well-crafted half-century but was run out immediately after reaching the milestone, while Verma fell shortly after for 43 off 40 balls. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur then took charge with a blistering unbeaten 50 off 27 deliveries, propelling India to a formidable total of 172/3. In response, Sri Lanka faltered under pressure, handing India a resounding victory and a ticket to the semifinals.

See Also: Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy's T20I return after two years

Harmanpreet Kaur’s Explosive Half-Century Powers India to Victory, Ending Sri Lanka’s World Cup Campaign

India Women produced a clinical performance to knock Sri Lanka out of the Women's T20 World Cup and secure their place in the semifinals with an emphatic 82-run victory. After opting to bat first, India set the tone early, with openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma displaying superb form at the top of the order. Their calculated aggression during the powerplay put the Sri Lankan bowlers on the back foot, and the duo stitched together a commanding 98-run partnership that laid the foundation for India’s innings. Sri Lanka, led by Chamari Athapaththu, struggled to create breakthroughs and prevent the boundaries from flowing.

Mandhana, who looked in sublime touch, brought up her half-century in style but was run out the very next ball. This breakthrough moment for Sri Lanka, however, failed to turn the tide in their favor. Shafali Verma, after a well-compiled 43 off 40 balls, also perished soon after, but India still had momentum on their side. Jemimah Rodrigues contributed briefly before falling in the 17th over, which set the stage for the Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur to take charge at the crease.

Kaur, known for her ability to finish innings with authority, wasted no time in asserting her dominance. Despite Richa Ghosh joining her and struggling to find rhythm, Kaur took on the Sri Lankan bowlers with fierce intent. The final few overs of India's innings saw a barrage of boundaries, as Kaur unleashed her powerful strokes across all parts of the ground. Her aggressive approach yielded 44 runs from the last 22 balls of the innings, with Ghosh managing only six runs in that period, as the Sri Lankan attack failed to contain Kaur's assault.

Sri Lankan bowlers, desperate to stop the onslaught, resorted to attempting yorkers, but their execution was off the mark. Kaur capitalized on their errors, driving and lofting the full-length deliveries at an astonishing strike rate of 213. By the time India’s innings ended at 172/3, Kaur had smashed an unbeaten 52 off just 27 balls, sealing the momentum in India’s favor. Her knock not only earned her the Player of the Match award but also demonstrated the firepower in India's middle order, which had been under some scrutiny earlier in the tournament.

In response, Sri Lanka crumbled under the pressure of chasing a daunting total. The Indian bowlers, riding high on the platform set by their batters, delivered an all-round performance to bundle out Sri Lanka for a paltry total. India’s comprehensive win, their largest in Women’s T20 World Cup history in terms of runs, not only cemented their place in the semifinals but also sent a strong message to their rivals as they continue their hunt for the title.

See Also: India women early dominance against Pakistan women

Pakistan started their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a commanding win, defeating Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka by 31 runs at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on October 3. This victory sets the tone for Pakistan as they aim for more success in the tournament.

Pakistan fly high on the opening day of the Women's #T20WorldCup 2024 🤩#PAKvSL | #WhateverItTakes pic.twitter.com/afHJwjcnv8

— ICC (@ICC) October 3, 2024

Fatima Sana’s crucial knock helps Pakistan set a defendable target

Despite a shaky start, Pakistan managed to put up a competitive total, thanks to a brilliant contribution by captain Fatima Sana. After Pakistan struggled at 32/3, Sana stepped up, scoring a quickfire 30 off 20 balls with three fours and a six. Her aggressive batting helped Pakistan recover from early setbacks, propelling the team to 117, a total that proved too much for Sri Lanka on a sluggish pitch.

The battle of the captains goes in favour of Pakistan's #FatimaSana as she dismisses Sri Lanka's #ChamariAthapaththu! 🔥 (only available in India)#WomensWorldCuponStar #PAKSL pic.twitter.com/yBUr26FPjD

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 3, 2024

It's number 5️⃣ for #SriLanka and #Pakistan's power hitter #NidaDar departs for 23 (22)! 🤩

Can captain #FatimaSana score more runs for her side and set up the win? 🤔#WomensWorldCuponStar #PAKSL pic.twitter.com/47DzofHKTd

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 3, 2024

Youngest captain after Meg Lanning to lead her side to victory in a Women's #T20WorldCup match 💪

Watch Fatima Sana's @aramco #POTM performance 👉 https://t.co/NXmALCt3ld#WhateverItTakes #PAKvSL pic.twitter.com/ZXkyyyHSPN

— ICC (@ICC) October 3, 2024

Omaima Sohail and Nida Dar stabilize the innings

Following Pakistan’s top-order collapse, Omaima Sohail and Nida Dar played critical roles in stabilizing the innings. Omaima contributed with a patient 18, while Nida added a valuable 23. Their partnership brought much-needed momentum, laying the foundation for Fatima Sana’s late-game heroics.

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by ICC (@icc)

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by ICC (@icc)

Sri Lanka’s bowlers shine despite loss

While Sri Lanka couldn’t chase down the target, their spinners, Chamari Athapaththu and Sugandhika Kumari, were outstanding with the ball. Both bowlers took three wickets each, keeping Pakistan under pressure throughout their innings. However, their efforts were not enough, as Sri Lanka fell short in their chase, managing only 85/9 in their 20 overs.

See Also: Diana Baig's injury scare brings a big blow for Pakistan Women

Pakistan’s dominant bowling display, combined with Fatima Sana’s captaincy, made the difference in the match. Sri Lanka will need to regroup and refocus as they face the tough challenge of Australia in their next fixture, while Pakistan prepares for their high-profile clash against India.

The Sri Lanka Women's side became prominent after a memorable triumph in the recent Women's Asia Cup tournament against a robust India side. With an optimum mix of experience and emerging talent, the Lankan squad have shown their top-class calibre by scalping their first-ever Women's Asia Cup title after many attempts by qualifying for the final stages.

As it implies, there is no doubt that they have a strong chance of getting their first-ever Women's T20 World Cup title, as they maintain the same gameplay. With that said, here's the announced Sri Lanka squad for the tournament, with its Probable XI and their top three players to check out. 

Announced Women's Sri Lanka 2024 T20 World Cup Full Squad:

Chamari Athapaththu (Captain), Anushka Sanjeewani (Wicketkeeper), Harshitha Madhavi, Nilakshika de Silva, Inoka Ranaweera, Hasini Perera, Kavisha Dilhari, Sachini Nisansala, Vishmi Gunaratne, Udeshika Prabodhani, Achini Kulasuriya, Sugandika Kumari, Inoshi Priyadharshani, Shashini Gimhani, Ama Kanchana, Kaushini Nuthyangana*

*Travelling Reserve

Sri Lanka Probable XI:  

• Vishmi Gunaratne
• Chamari Athapaththu (Captain)
• Harshitha Samarawickrama
• Kavisha Dilhari
• Nilakshika de Silva
• Anushka Sanjeewani (Wicketkeeper)
• Hasini Perera
• Sugandika Kumari
• Inoshi Priyadarshani
• Udeshika Prabodhani
• Sachini Nisansala

Also Read: 2024 Women's T20 World Cup: Bangladesh Women's Team squad, Probable XI & Top 3 players to check out

Top 3 players to check out from Sri Lanka in the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup:

Chamari Athapaththu

Chamari Athapaththu was the face of Sri Lanka's first-ever Women's Asia Cup triumph, signifying her experienced batting calibre and a top-class captain's mindset. In her Women's Asia Cup victory, she was the highest run-scorer and the Player of the Tournament.

Having experience across several formats, tournaments and conditions, Chamari is one of the leading players to check out for. In her long T20I stint, she has played 139 matches and made 3326 runs, averaging over 26. 

Harshitha Samarawickrama

Harshitha Samarawickrama, the left-hand batter, has played a vital role in bolstering the team's top-order batting. Following the captain's footsteps, she has played across different conditions and tournaments, citing her experience taking up hostile and authoritarian play modes.

She was known to be an accumulator and a busy top-order batter, and she idolised Kumar Sangakarra, indicating her inspiration for her signature Cover Drive. In her T20I stint, she has made 1463 runs in 65 matches, at a commendable average of over 31. 

Udeshika Prabodhani

Udeshika Prabodhani is a left-arm medium pacer with a quick inswinger thrown after a brief trundle that has defeated numerous batters. And she has done it frequently enough to become a fixture in Sri Lanka's bowling attack over the last decade. One of her most remarkable characteristics is her ability to maintain tight lines and lengths, making her a valuable player for her side at critical periods, frequently getting wickets when needed.

Her longevity and continuous success demonstrate her fitness, ability, and enthusiasm for the game. In her T20I career, she has scalped 80 wickets in 102 matches at a noteworthy economy of 5.48. 

The second semifinal of the Asia Cup 2024 Women’s tournament features a compelling matchup between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Women have emerged as the dominant force in Group B, maintaining an unblemished record throughout the group stages. Their impressive journey was highlighted by a commanding 144-run victory, demonstrating their batting depth and bowling prowess. Additionally, their ability to chase down targets with authority in two decisive matches showcased their balanced and formidable lineup.

As they prepare to face Pakistan, Sri Lanka will look to carry forward their momentum and continue their unbeaten run to secure a place in the final. On the other hand, Pakistan Women have shown remarkable resilience and determination to reach the semifinals. After an initial setback against their arch-rivals, India Women, where they suffered a comprehensive defeat by seven wickets, Pakistan made a robust recovery.

They bounced back with emphatic victories, securing wins by nine and ten wickets respectively, showcasing their strength in both batting and bowling departments. These dominant performances propelled them into the last four of the competition, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. As they face the undefeated Sri Lankan team, Pakistan will aim to leverage their recent form and strategic acumen to upset the Group B leaders and advance to the final.

See Also: Women’s Asia Cup 2024: Pre-match Analysis: Can the Bangladesh Women Outplay the Formidable Indian Side?

Strategies for Pakistan Women to Contain Chamari Athapaththu

Chamari Athapaththu has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup in the Asia Cup 2024, emerging as a pivotal figure in their successful campaign. With 180 runs in just 3 matches, including a stunning unbeaten 119, she has displayed exceptional skill and leadership on the field. Athapaththu’s aggressive batting style is highlighted by her remarkable strike rate of 155.17, which has consistently put pressure on opposition bowlers, making her a formidable force at the crease.

Her ability to score quickly and play match-winning innings has been instrumental in Sri Lanka’s journey to the semifinals. Athapaththu has showcased her prowess by scoring 110 runs off just 62 balls against right-arm medium bowlers, and 51 runs off 37 balls against right-arm off-break bowlers. These performances underline her capacity to dominate various bowling attacks, significantly contributing to her team’s success in the tournament.

However, Athapaththu has faced some challenges, particularly against left-arm orthodox bowlers. In this department, she managed only 18 runs off 15 balls, indicating a slight vulnerability. Despite this, her overall impact on the tournament has been substantial, and her ability to adapt and overcome obstacles makes her a key player to watch in the semifinals.

Gull Feroza has been a standout performer for Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2024, especially during their recovery phase after an initial setback. In just 3 matches, she has scored 124 runs, with a top score of 62* and an impressive strike rate of 130.52. Feroza’s ability to play impactful and aggressive innings has been a key factor in Pakistan’s resurgence. Her consistency at the top of the order has provided Pakistan with solid starts, setting a strong foundation for their batting efforts and helping them secure crucial victories.

Muneeba Ali has also played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s journey to the semifinals. With 94 runs in 3 matches and a high score of 46, she has maintained a healthy strike rate of 125.33. Ali’s contributions have been essential in building competitive totals and chasing down targets. Her ability to rotate the strike and score at a brisk pace has complemented Feroza’s performances, creating a formidable opening partnership.

See Also: Men’s Hundred 2024: Match Analysis: Where did Birmingham Phoenix went wrong in their innings?

Recently, Sri Lanka set a new benchmark by becoming the first team in women’s ODI cricket to chase down a target exceeding 300 runs. This achievement not only highlights the evolving competitive landscape of women’s cricket but also underscores the tremendous growth and increasing excitement around the sport.

Historic Chase against South Africa

On a vibrant day at the cricket ground, Sri Lanka faced a formidable total set by their opponents. Previously, the highest successful chase in women’s ODIs was 289 by Australia against New Zealand in 2012. Sri Lanka’s remarkable chase of 305 runs has rewritten the record books, showcasing the team’s resilience and strategic prowess.

See Also: IPL 2024: key points, Match 32, GT vs DC

Key Performances

Central to this historic win were the performances of Chamari Athapaththu and Laura Wolvaardt. Chamari, the Sri Lankan captain, and Laura, the South African powerhouse, were pivotal with their batting masterclass, each scoring well over 175 runs.

Chamari Athapaththu’s Performance

Chamari Athapaththu’s unbeaten 195 runs is now the highest score while chasing in a women’s ODI, surpassing the previous record held by Meg Lanning. Her innings is a testament to her leadership and skill, marking her as one of the most formidable batters in women’s cricket today.

Partnership Highlights

Significant to the chase was the 179-run partnership between Chamari and Nilakshika Silva, which is the second-highest stand for the fifth or a lower wicket in women’s ODIs. Their partnership not only stabilized the innings but also propelled the team towards the monumental target.

Laura Wolvaardt’s Innings

On the opposing side, Laura Wolvaardt’s 184* runs set a national record for South Africa and is now the highest individual score to end up on the losing side in women’s ODIs. Her elegant and powerful batting displayed why she is considered one of the best in women’s cricket.

Records and Achievements

This match was rich with record-setting performances, including the highest aggregate of runs scored by captains in an ODI. Both captains surpassed the previous record held by Virat Kohli and Angelo Mathews, highlighting the increasing competitiveness in women’s cricket.

Sri Lanka’s strategic approach to the chase was methodical and aggressive. The decision to accelerate the innings post the 30-over mark was a game-changer, allowing them to keep up with the rising required run rate.

Impact on Women’s Cricket

This historic chase is likely to have a profound impact on women’s cricket, encouraging greater investments in the sport and inspiring a new generation of female cricketers. It emphasizes the growing parity and competitiveness among international women’s teams.