Follow how Chamari Athapaththu Steers Sri Lanka to a Crashing Win Over Malaysia at Women’s Asia Cup 2024. Stay up to date with all the match details and analysis on our website.
Introduction
The Women’s Asia Cup 2024 saw a dominant performance from the Sri Lankan team as they secured a massive 144-run victory over Malaysia. Chamari Athapaththu’s extraordinary unbeaten 119 off 69 balls and a remarkable bowling spell by 15-year-old Shashini Gimhani were the highlights of the match. This comprehensive report delves into the key moments and performances that led to Sri Lanka(W)’s triumph.
See also: Pakistan Women’s Exciting Progress in the Asia Cup 2024
Athapaththu’s Record-Breaking Innings
Chamari Athapaththu, the captain of the Sri Lankan women’s cricket team, delivered an exceptional performance in T20I batting, scoring an unbeaten 119 runs off just 69 balls. Her phenomenal innings featured six boundaries and eight towering sixes, demonstrating her remarkable ability to effortlessly find the boundary.
Athapaththu’s innings was a blend of precision, power, and elegance, providing the solid foundation for Sri Lanka(W)’s imposing total of 184 for 4 against Malaysia(W). Her masterclass in batting was instrumental in setting a challenging target, showcasing her leadership and batting prowess, and solidifying her reputation as one of the premier batters in women’s cricket. This exceptional performance was pivotal in Sri Lanka’s comprehensive victory in the Women’s Asia Cup 2024.
See also: Bangladesh Women’s 7-Wicket Victory Over Thailand Women
Early Wickets and Steady Start
Sri Lanka(W) faced an early setback when Vishmi Gunaratne, the hero of their previous match against Bangladesh(W), was dismissed for just 1 run. However, Athapaththu remained unfazed, gradually building her innings with a mix of caution and aggression. Malaysia(W)’s fielding lapses provided Athapaththu with opportunities to accelerate the scoring.
Mid-Innings Acceleration
Athapaththu’s half-century came off 35 balls, marked by a series of innovative shots that kept the scoreboard ticking. She received a crucial lifeline when Dhanusri Muhunan dropped a catch at backward point. This dropped catch seemed to spur Athapaththu into overdrive, as she began to dominate the Malaysian(W) bowling attack.
Explosive Finish
In the final overs, Athapaththu unleashed a barrage of boundaries, including five sixes in the last three overs. Her ability to clear the front leg and power the ball into the leg-side arc left Malaysia(W)’s bowlers helpless. Athapaththu’s century, the first-ever in Women’s Asia Cup history, was a testament to her skill and determination.
Gimhani’s Impressive Spell
Shashini Gimhani, a 15-year-old ambidextrous wrist spinner, made a significant impact with the ball, taking 3 wickets for just 9 runs. Her performance was instrumental in dismantling the Malaysian batting lineup, which was bowled out for a paltry 40 runs.
Key Dismissals
Gimhani struck early in the powerplay, removing two key Malaysian(W) batters and setting the tone for the innings. Her ability to impart spin and flight the ball troubled the Malaysian(W) batters, who struggled to cope with her variations.
Malaysia’s Struggle
Malaysia(W)’s chase never gained momentum, as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Aina Najwa’s defiant 9 off 43 balls was the only notable resistance, but it was not enough to prevent a comprehensive defeat. Elsa Hunter managed to hit the only two boundaries of the innings before falling to Gimhani.
Tactical Brilliance
Sri Lanka(W)’s victory was not just about individual brilliance but also tactical acumen. The decision to include Gimhani in the playing XI proved to be a masterstroke, giving her valuable match experience ahead of the T20 World Cup. Athapaththu’s leadership on the field, combined with effective bowling changes, ensured that Malaysia never had a chance to recover.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s emphatic win over Malaysia in the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 highlights the team’s depth and talent. Chamari Athapaththu’s record-breaking innings and Shashini Gimhani’s outstanding bowling spell were the cornerstones of this victory. As Sri Lanka(W) continues its preparations for the T20 World Cup, performances like these will boost the team’s confidence and morale.