Sri Lanka’s captain, Chamari Athapaththu, played a remarkable innings in the Women’s T20 World Cup, scoring an unbeaten 106 runs off 61 balls against Ireland. This outstanding performance led Sri Lanka to a convincing nine-wicket win in the match held at the County Ground in Bristol. Athapaththu’s century, which included 17 fours and two sixes, was crucial in guiding her team to victory with ease.
Sri Lanka’s chase of 131 runs began steadily, with Athapaththu accelerating the scoring in the second over by hitting boundaries and setting the tone for the innings. Her aggressive approach continued as she consistently found the boundaries, maintaining control over the match. Athapaththu’s partnership with Imesha Dulani laid a strong foundation, with both players contributing effectively to the run chase.
Throughout the innings, Athapaththu’s dominance was evident as she reached her half-century in just 30 deliveries and later went on to score the first six of the match. Despite a brief setback with Dulani’s dismissal, Athapaththu remained unfazed and continued to push towards her century. Her century, achieved in the 15th over, marked a significant milestone in her T20 International career and sealed Sri Lanka’s victory comfortably.
Ireland, after a shaky start, managed to post 130/5 thanks to a fighting half-century from their captain, Gaby Lewis. Despite losing early wickets, Lewis’s composed innings and partnerships with her teammates helped Ireland recover and set a competitive total. However, Sri Lanka’s strong batting performance, led by Athapaththu, ensured a comprehensive victory for the team.
