Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu Guides Team to Asia Cup Final with Resolute Half-Century
In a thrilling encounter at Dambulla, Sri Lanka’s skipper Chamari Athapaththu led her team to a hard-fought three-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second semifinal of the Women’s Asia Cup. The win propelled Sri Lanka into the championship match against India, who had earlier defeated Bangladesh by 10 wickets.
Athapaththu, the tournament’s leading run-scorer, played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s triumph. Her well-timed 63 off 48 deliveries, studded with nine fours and a six, singlehandedly steered the Lankans towards the 141-run target. Her crucial partnership of 61 runs with Kalisha Dilhari (17 off 18 balls) for the third wicket provided Sri Lanka with a solid foundation.
Anushka Sanjeevani’s unbeaten 24 off 22 balls, including a four and a six, also played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s successful chase. The hosts reached the target of 141 for 7 in 19.5 overs, securing their place in the final.
Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by the experienced left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal, who claimed an impressive 4 wickets for 16 runs in her four overs. However, she lacked adequate support from her fellow bowlers, allowing Sri Lanka to overcome the challenge.
Earlier, Pakistan’s innings was anchored by useful contributions from Muneeba Ali (37), Gull Feroza (25), captain Nida Dar (23), and Fatima Sana (23 not out). Despite getting starts, none of them managed to convert their scores into more substantial ones, resulting in Pakistan posting a total of 140 for four in 20 overs.
