Sri Lanka Women stormed to a commanding victory over Malaysia Women in the Women's Asia Cup 2024, with a stellar performance led by captain Chamari Athapaththu, who scored a 69-ball 119.
Electing to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a formidable 184/4, thanks to Athapaththu’s explosive 119 not out off 69 balls, featuring 14 fours and 7 sixes. Harshitha Samarawickrama and Anushka Sanjeewani chipped in with valuable contributions, while Malaysia’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught.
In reply, Malaysia Women crumbled, managing just 40 runs in 19.5 overs. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly the 15-year-old Shashini Gimhani with 3 wickets for 9 runs, and Kawya Kavindi, who took 2 for 7 followed by Kavisha Dilhari claiming back-to-back wickets, decimated Malaysia’s batting lineup. None of the Malaysian batters except Elsa Hunter reached double figures, highlighting the dominant performance by the Sri Lankan team.
Chamari Athapaththu’s century, her third in T20Is, made her only the third woman cricketer to achieve this milestone. Her leadership and batting prowess set a high standard for the tournament. With such a comprehensive win, Sri Lanka Women have announced themselves as strong contenders for the Asia Cup
Brief Scores
Sri Lanka 184/4 in 20 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 119, Anushka Sanjeewani 31; Winifred Duraisingam 2/34) beat Malaysia 40 all-out (Elsa Hunter 10, Aina Najwa 9; Shashini Gimhani 3/9) by 144 runs.
Player of the Match: Chamari Athapaththu 119 (69)
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