Sri Lanka Women Clinch Thrilling Victory Over South Africa in Tri-Nation Series
Chamari Athapaththu’s Heroics Lead Sri Lanka to a Memorable Win
In a captivating encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on May 2, 2025, Sri Lanka Women secured a remarkable victory over South Africa Women in the third match of the Sri Lanka Women’s Tri-Nation Series. Chasing a target of 236 runs, Sri Lanka achieved the goal with seven wickets in hand and 12 balls to spare, thanks to a stellar performance by captain Chamari Athapaththu.
South Africa Sets a Competitive Total
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, South Africa Women posted a formidable total of 235 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs. Captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a composed 102 runs off 210 balls, anchoring the innings. Tazmin Brits provided a solid start with a brisk 14, while Lara Goodall contributed 46 runs. Despite a strong top-order performance, Sri Lanka’s bowlers managed to contain the scoring in the latter stages.(ESPN Cricinfo)
Malki Madara was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka, claiming four wickets for 50 runs. Dewmi Vihanga also made significant inroads, taking three wickets for 41 runs. Inoka Ranaweera and Sugandika Kumari chipped in with crucial wickets, restricting South Africa’s momentum.
Sri Lanka’s Chase Anchored by Athapaththu
In response, Sri Lanka Women began their chase cautiously. Hasini Perera and Chamari Athapaththu laid a solid foundation with a 90-run partnership. Perera scored a steady 42 before falling to Sune Luus. Athapaththu, showcasing her class, continued to dominate the bowlers, scoring a fluent 68 runs. Despite losing Vishmi Gunaratne and Athapaththu in quick succession, the middle order held firm.
Harshitha Samarawickrama and Kavisha Dilhari combined for an unbeaten partnership, steering Sri Lanka to victory. Samarawickrama remained not out on 50, while Dilhari contributed a valuable 37 runs. Their composed batting ensured that Sri Lanka reached the target comfortably.(ESPN Cricinfo)
Key Performances and Turning Points
- Chamari Athapaththu: The captain’s 68-run knock was instrumental in setting the tone for the chase.
- Harshitha Samarawickrama: Her unbeaten 50 provided stability in the middle order.
- Malki Madara: Her four-wicket haul was crucial in restricting South Africa to a manageable total.
Match Summary
- South Africa Women: 235/9 in 50 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 102; Malki Madara 4/50)
- Sri Lanka Women: 236/3 in 48 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 68, Harshitha Samarawickrama 50*)
- Result: Sri Lanka Women won by 7 wickets.
Looking Ahead
This victory boosts Sri Lanka Women’s confidence as they continue their campaign in the Tri-Nation Series. The team’s balanced performance in both batting and bowling departments bodes well for upcoming matches. South Africa Women will look to regroup and address areas of concern to bounce back in the tournament.
The Tri-Nation Series continues to provide thrilling cricketing action, with teams vying for supremacy in this competitive setup.
