Sri Lanka clinched a thrilling three-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 semi-final in Dambulla on Friday, thanks to skipper Chamari Athapaththu‘s diligent fifty. Athapaththu, the highest run-getter in the tournament with 223 runs, played a pivotal role, scoring 63 off 48 balls. Her efforts, along with Anushka Sanjeevani‘s unbeaten 24, guided Sri Lanka to chase down the target of 141 in 19.5 overs, finishing at 141 for 7.
Athapaththu‘s composed innings and a crucial partnership with Kalisha Dilhari (17 off 18 balls) for the third wicket, where they added 61 runs, put Sri Lanka in a commanding position. Despite a valiant effort from Pakistan, particularly through the brilliant spell of left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal, who took 4 wickets for 16 runs in her 4 overs, Pakistan couldn’t secure enough support from other bowlers to restrict Sri Lanka.
Earlier in the day, defending champions India defeated Bangladesh by 10 wickets in the first semi-final, ensuring their place in the final. Sri Lanka and India will face off in the title clash on Sunday, promising an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
This victory not only highlights Athapaththu‘s stellar form but also sets the stage for a highly anticipated final as Sri Lanka seeks to challenge the defending champions.
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