Sri Lanka women powered their way into the final of the Asian Games women’s cricket competition with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in Sunday’s semi-final, chasing down a target of 178 with more than two overs to spare.
Pakistan Set Competitive Total
Batting first after being put in, Pakistan posted 177 for four in their allotted 20 overs, a total that demanded disciplined bowling and a sharp chase from the Sri Lankans.
Ayesha Zafar anchored the innings with a top score of 71, while Shawaal Zulfiqar contributed a solid 54 to give Pakistan a platform for a challenging total.
Athapaththu Leads the Chase
Sri Lanka’s reply was controlled from the outset, with captain Chamari Athapaththu leading from the front. The skipper finished unbeaten on 83, guiding her side home with authority.
Hasini Perera offered valuable support with 42 runs as Sri Lanka reached the target in 17.5 overs, losing only two wickets along the way.
- Sri Lanka chased 178 in 17.5 overs, finishing on 178 for two
- Chamari Athapaththu top-scored with an unbeaten 83
- Hasini Perera added 42 runs in support
- Fatima Sana and Nashra Sandhu took one wicket each for Pakistan
What’s Next
The result sends Sri Lanka into the Asian Games women’s cricket final, where they will contest for gold. Pakistan, meanwhile, will shift focus to the bronze-medal match as they look to salvage a podium finish from their campaign.
