In a thrilling finale at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers, Sri Lanka showcased their dominance over Scotland, securing a resounding victory led by captain Chamari Athapaththu’s sensational performance. Held in Abu Dhabi, the match witnessed a display of skill and determination from both sides, but it was Sri Lanka who emerged victorious, clinching the coveted title.
Winning the toss, Scottish stand-in skipper Sarah Bryce opted to field first, relying on her bowlers to set the tone. The decision initially paid off as early breakthroughs were made, notably with seamer Priyanaz Chatterji dismissing Vishmi Gunaratne and off-spinner Katherine Fraser removing Harshita Samarawickrama. However, Sri Lanka’s captain, Athapaththu, anchored her team’s innings with remarkable resilience.
Despite losing partners at regular intervals, Athapaththu remained unfazed, steadily building her innings. Supported by dynamic all-rounder Kavisha Dilhari, she accelerated the scoring, showcasing her prowess with a flurry of boundaries and timely sixes. Athapaththu’s masterful innings culminated in a breathtaking century, the first of the tournament, setting a formidable target of 170 for Scotland.
In response, Scotland’s chase faltered early on, with wickets tumbling in quick succession. Despite brief resistance from Priyanaz Chatterji, Scotland found themselves facing an insurmountable task, struggling to keep up with the required run rate. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Udeshika Prabodhani, maintained relentless pressure, ultimately securing a comprehensive victory.
The win not only sealed Sri Lanka’s triumph in the qualifiers but also earned them a coveted spot alongside cricketing powerhouses in Group A of the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, Scotland, despite the defeat, showcased commendable resilience throughout the tournament and will join the host nation, Bangladesh, along with other formidable teams in the prestigious event.
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers served as a platform for emerging talent and showcased the growing competitiveness in women’s cricket. As Sri Lanka celebrates their victory and prepares for the challenges ahead, the tournament’s legacy will continue to inspire and elevate the women’s game on the global stage.
