Dambulla, July 28, 2024 — Sri Lanka created history on Sunday by dethroning India to clinch their maiden Women’s T20 Asia Cup. Openers Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama’s fighting half-centuries, coupled with Kavisha Dilhari’s all-round heroics, stood out as Sri Lanka cruised to an eight-wicket victory in front of a packed crowd in Dambulla.
Dominant Batting Display
Sri Lanka’s chase of 165 was anchored by their openers. Athapaththu’s aggressive 61 set the tone, particularly her assault on left-arm spinner Tanuja Kanwar, taking 16 runs off one over to end the powerplay on 44 for 1. Samarawickrama’s unbeaten 69, a career-best, was pivotal. She showcased her prowess with a mix of pull shots and slog sweeps, ensuring Sri Lanka maintained momentum even after Athapaththu’s dismissal in the 12th over. Dilhari’s swift 30 off 16 balls, including a six to seal the victory in the penultimate over, underscored her value to the team.
India’s Competitive Total Falls Short
India posted a competitive 165 for 6, with Smriti Mandhana top-scoring with a brisk 60. Mandhana’s knock included three boundaries in the final over of the powerplay, setting a strong platform. Contributions from Richa Ghosh and Jemimah Rodrigues added valuable runs, but the total proved insufficient against Sri Lanka’s determined chase.
Turning Points and Key Battles
Athapaththu’s assault on India’s left-arm spinners was a critical phase, scoring 29 of her 61 runs off them. The use of Radha Yadav and Tanuja Kanwar against the two left-handed batters proved costly for India.
Samarawickrama’s composed innings was another highlight. She took charge after Athapaththu’s departure, ensuring there were no jitters despite needing 72 runs from the last 48 balls. Her 17-run blitz in the 18th over off Radha Yadav effectively sealed the match for Sri Lanka.
Dilhari’s dual role was also crucial. With the ball, she picked up 2 for 36, including the key wicket of Mandhana, who was caught brilliantly by Athapaththu. Her final over saw Ghosh hitting two fours and a six, but it wasn’t enough to tilt the game in India’s favour.
Sri Lanka’s Year of Dominance
Sri Lanka’s victory in the Women’s T20 Asia Cup is the culmination of a remarkable year. They have won 14 of their 17 T20Is in 2024, entering the T20 World Cup in October with immense confidence. This triumph underscores that Sri Lanka is not solely reliant on their captain, showcasing the depth and resilience of the squad.
Mandhana’s Effort in Vain
Mandhana’s effort was commendable, as she brought her experience to the fore, particularly during the powerplay. However, lapses in the field, including two dropped catches, cost India dearly. Harmanpreet Kaur’s fumble in the 15th over, dropping Samarawickrama on 45, was a significant moment in the game.
