Sri Lanka Defeat Pakistan by Six Wickets to Take 1-0 Lead in Women’s T20I Series
Sports Correspondet: Imran Sohail
DAMBULLA: Sri Lanka secured a six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the three-match Women’s T20 International series after a brilliant unbeaten century from Imesha Dulani at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium.
Chasing a target of 177 runs, Sri Lanka reached the total with one over remaining. Dulani starred with an outstanding 101 not out from 64 deliveries, guiding her team to a winning start in the series.
Pakistan Register Record Total in Sri Lanka
Earlier, Pakistan posted 176 runs, their highest Women’s T20 International total on Sri Lankan soil.
Opener Shawaal Zulfiqar made an impressive return to international cricket by scoring 63 runs from 41 balls, recording her maiden T20I half-century after returning from injury.
She shared a strong opening partnership with Muneeba Ali, who contributed a quick 42 off 24 balls, helping Pakistan make a fast start during the powerplay.
Debutant Eman Naseer also made a useful contribution with 21 runs, while late cameos from the middle order helped Pakistan finish with a competitive total.
Dulani Leads Sri Lanka’s Successful Chase
Sri Lanka responded positively with captain Chamari Athapaththu, who scored a rapid 39 runs, putting the hosts in a strong position during the early stages of the chase.
Although Pakistan claimed a few wickets through Nashra Sandhu, Dulani remained in control throughout the innings. She built an important partnership with Kavisha Dilhari, who added 32 runs, ensuring Sri Lanka stayed ahead of the required run rate.
Dulani completed her maiden T20 International century and became only the second Sri Lankan woman to score a T20I hundred, leading her side to victory.
Pakistan Look to Bounce Back
Despite the defeat, Pakistan produced several encouraging batting performances, including strong contributions from their top order and two debut appearances during the match.
Following the game, Shawaal Zulfiqar said the team was pleased with its batting display but acknowledged that improvements in bowling and fielding would be important in the remaining matches.
Sri Lanka now hold a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, while Pakistan will aim to win the next two games to secure the series.
