Sri Lanka stormed into the Women's Asia Cup 2024 final after a edging past Pakistan by three wickets in a thrilling semi-final clash played at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on July 26.
Chamari Athapaththu leads from the front
Captain Chamari Athapaththu's impressive 63 runs led Sri Lanka to victory, chasing down a target of 140 runs. With this win, Sri Lanka have set up a final clash against India on July 28, aiming for their first-ever Asia Cup title. The match went down to the wire and Sri Lanka overhauled the target in the last over. With six needed off the final over, Pakistan captain Nida Dar bowled a tight spell. However, a crucial wide delivery swung the momentum in Sri Lanka's favor, allowing them to seal the win.
Sri Lanka recover from shaky start
Sri Lanka got off to a shaky start, losing two early wickets within the first four overs. However, captain Chamari Athapaththu steadied the ship with a crucial knock of 63 runs. Anushka Sanjeewani's unbeaten 24 guided Sri Lanka home with just one ball to spare.
Sadia Iqbal was the standout bowler for Pakistan, claiming four wickets. Nida Dar and Omaima Sohail contributed with one wicket each. Sri Lanka will now face India in the final on July 28th in Dambulla.
Feroza, Muneeba's efforts in vain for Pakistan
Pakistan got off to a steady start with their openers, Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali, building a solid partnership.
Feroza and Muneeba formed a 61-run partnership before the former was dismissed by Udeshika Prabodhani for 25 runs. Muneeba followed her opening partner in the same over after scoring 37 runs off 34 balls. Sidra Amin, coming in at number three, could not contribute much as she was dismissed after scoring 10 runs off 13 deliveries. Skipper Nida Dar played a quick and impactful knock, scoring 23 runs off 17 balls. Her efforts were supported by Fatima Sana (23 off 17) and Aliya Riaz (16 off 15), whose late contributions helped Pakistan set a target of 141 runs. For Sri Lanka, Udeshika Prabodhani and Kavisha Dilhari each took two wickets
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