INDIA WOMEN CLINCH 30-RUN WIN DESPITE SPIRITED SRI LANKAN CHASE

India Women registered a convincing 30-run victory over Sri Lanka Women, but not before being tested by a determined chase led by captain Chamari Athapaththu and late fireworks from Nilakshika de Silva.

- AGENCIES

Defending a challenging total, India had to rely on timely breakthroughs anda strong final over to seal the contest.Sri Lanka began the chase with positive intent, producing their best powerplay of the series at 60/1. Chamari Athapaththu was at the heart of the charge, mixing power with placement and putting pressure on India’s bowlers. Alongside Imesha Dulani, she stitched together a solid partnership that kept Sri Lanka well in the hunt during the middle overs. Athapaththu reached a well-crafted half-century off 37 balls, striking three fours and three sixes, and briefly raised hopes of a successful chase.