India delivered an exceptional performance at the Women’s T20 World Cup, defeating Sri Lanka by 82 runs and knocking them out of contention. Key contributions from Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur helped India set a formidable target, while their bowlers executed a disciplined strategy to restrict Sri Lanka to 90 runs.
In a decisive match at the Women’s T20 World Cup, India showcased their formidable skills by securing an impressive 82-run victory over Sri Lanka, effectively eliminating their opponents from the tournament. Set with a challenging target of 173 runs in Dubai, Sri Lanka faltered early in their batting innings, collapsing to a mere 90 runs all out in just 19.5 overs. India’s innings saw commendable contributions from openers Smriti Mandhana and captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who both delivered outstanding half-centuries, propelling the team’s total to 172-3, the highest score recorded in the tournament thus far. Kaur, who was notably dropped when she scored 22, punished the Sri Lankan bowling attack, finishing with an unbeaten 52 runs from just 27 deliveries. Mandhana set a solid foundation, scoring a brisk fifty in 36 balls during a partnership of 98 runs with Shafali Verma, who scored 43 runs. Sri Lanka’s early hopes rested on the shoulders of star all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu, but they encountered major setbacks when she fell for just one run, shortly after opener Vishmi Gunaratne was dismissed by a remarkable catch from Radha Yadav on the second delivery of the chase. India’s bowlers maintained rigorous discipline and showcased excellent fielding, with leg-spinner Asha Sobhana and all-rounder Arundhati Reddy each claiming three wickets for just 19 runs. This victory elevates India to second place in Group A, enhancing their net run rate following a previous defeat by New Zealand. Their next match will be a significant test against defending champions Australia. In contrast, Sri Lanka remains at the bottom of the standings and will aim for a more positive conclusion against New Zealand in their final match.
The Women’s T20 World Cup has been a platform where cricketing nations compete at high levels, aiming for prestigious standings in international cricket. India’s match against Sri Lanka held substantial importance, not only as a means to secure their position in the semi-finals but also as a reflection of their team’s recovery from an earlier disappointing performance. The objective was clear: to dominate the contest and eliminate their rivals. India’s mixed performance at the start of the tournament created skepticism regarding their batting capability, but this match marked a significant turning point, showcasing their potential as serious contenders.
India’s emphatic victory over Sri Lanka stands as a testament to their resilience and skill in the Women’s T20 World Cup. With stellar performances from key players like Mandhana and Kaur, India has not only assured their progression towards the semi-finals but also demonstrated an impressive recovery from previous setbacks. Sri Lanka’s exit from the tournament underscores the challenges they faced throughout the competition. Looking ahead, India aims to maintain this momentum as they face strong opponents in their upcoming matches.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
