In the first Women’s ODI of the New Zealand tour of Sri Lanka 2023, the hosts emerged victorious, defeating the White Ferns by 9 wickets (D/L method) at the Galle International Stadium.
After winning the toss in the contest that was reduced to 28 overs per side due to rain and wet outfield, the tourists elected to bat first and posted a competitive total of 170 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Amelia Kerr with 40 runs off 51 balls with 3 fours, and Maddy Green, who added 39 runs off 32 deliveries, including 3 fours and 1 six were the top scorers. Sugandika Kumari and Kavisha Dilhari were the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka Women, taking 1 wicket each.
Chasing a target of 171 runs, Sri Lanka displayed a dominant batting performance, reaching the required total with 9 wickets in hand and 1 over to spare. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu played a brilliant innings, scoring an unbeaten 111 runs off just 83 balls, which included 11 fours and 5 sixes. She was well supported by Vishmi Rajapaksha, who contributed 50 runs off 74 deliveries. Together, they formed a match-winning partnership that ensured victory for the Sri Lanka Women’s team.
In the bowling department, Sophie Devine managed to pick up 1 wicket for New Zealand Women, while the rest of the bowlers struggled to make an impact. Despite their efforts, Sri Lanka Women dominated the match with a convincing batting display.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
