Sri Lanka edge past Pakistan to set up final clash with India

Sri Lanka Women clinched a thrilling win over Pakistan Women in the Women's Asia Cup 2024, securing their spot in the final. 

Electing to field first, Sri Lanka restricted Pakistan to 140/4 in their 20 overs. Muneeba Ali (37 off 34) and Nida Dar (23 off 17) were the top scorers for Pakistan, while Udeshika Prabodhani and Kavisha Dilhari picked up two wickets each for Sri Lanka.

Chasing 141, Sri Lanka faced early setbacks but were anchored by a superb innings from Chamari Athapaththu. She scored a brilliant 63 off 48 balls, hitting nine fours and a six, before falling with the score at 120. 

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Anushka Sanjeewani's composed 24 not out guided Sri Lanka to a nail-biting victory with just one ball to spare. Sadia Iqbal's impressive 4/16 for Pakistan was in vain.

Chamari Athapaththu's all-round performance earned her the Player of the Match award. This victory not only secures Sri Lanka Women’s place in the final but also sets up an exciting clash against India on July 28. 

Sri Lanka’s blend of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling has made them a formidable team in this tournament.

Brief scores: 

Pakistan Women 140/4 in 20 overs (Muneeba Ali 37, Gull Feroza 25; Udeshika Prabodhani 2/23) lost to Sri Lanka Women 141/7 in 19.5 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 63, Anushka Sanjeewani 24*; Sadia Iqbal 4/16) by 3 wickets.

Player of the Match: Chamari Athapaththu

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