Sri Lanka Women registered a commanding seven-wicket victory over New Zealand Women in the first T20I at Hagley Oval, chasing down a paltry target of 102 runs in just 14.1 overs. Led by a stunning knock from skipper Chamari Athapaththu and an inspired bowling performance from Malki Madara, the visitors dominated both departments to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Sri Lanka restricts New Zealand for 101
Electing to bat first, New Zealand struggled against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack, managing only 101 runs before being bowled out in 18.5 overs. No.3 Emma McLeod was the standout performer with a patient 44 off 46 balls, while captain Suzie Bates provided a brisk start with 21 off 14 balls. However, frequent wickets derailed their innings, as no other batter managed to settle.
Malki Madara was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka, claiming 3 wickets for just 14 runs in 3.5 overs. Inoshi Priyadharshani (2/25) and Kavisha Dilhari (2/18) also made crucial breakthroughs, while Chamari Athapaththu and Sugandika Kumari contributed with a wicket each to restrict the hosts.
Chamari Athapaththu guides Sri Lanka to victory
Chasing 102, Sri Lanka got off to a steady start, but it was captain Athapaththu who took charge, playing a blistering knock of 64 not out off 48 balls, including nine fours and two sixes. Despite losing Vishmi Rajapaksha Gunaratne (7 off 11), Harshitha Samarawickrama (2 off 7) and Kavisha Dilhari (12 off 10) in quick succession, Athapaththu’s aggressive stroke play kept Sri Lanka in control.
Athapaththu and Nilakshi de Silva (12 not out off 9) ensured there were no further hiccups, guiding the visitors to victory with 35 balls to spare.
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Sri Lanka take a 1-nil T20I series lead. A 13th T20I half-century from captain Chamari Athapaththu led Sri Lanka’s run chase. Scorecard | https://t.co/f9VDjmTdhe #NZvSL #CricketNation
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For New Zealand, Jess Kerr was the only bowler who made an impact, picking up two wickets for 18 runs in her four-over spell.
Player of the Match
Malki Madara was adjudged Player of the Match for her brilliant bowling display.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
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