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Women’s Asia Cup 2024
In a stunning finale at the Women’s Asia Cup T20 2024, Sri Lanka emerged victorious, defeating the Indian women’s cricket team by eight wickets. This match, held in Dambulla on Sunday, marked a historic moment for Sri Lanka as they claimed their first-ever Women’s Asia Cup title, ending India’s long-standing dominance in the tournament.
A Milestone Achievement for Sri Lanka
Having lost to India in five previous finals, Sri Lanka’s win was a significant breakthrough. India, batting first, set a challenging target of 165/6 in 20 overs, thanks to a superb half-century by Smriti Mandhana and important contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh.
India’s Innings: Mandhana Shines
Smriti Mandhana led the Indian innings with a commanding 60 off 47 balls. Opening with Shafali Verma, the duo added 44 runs during the powerplay. However, quick wickets slowed India’s momentum. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s attempt to accelerate the run rate was cut short, but Jemimah Rodrigues stepped up, playing her 100th T20I, to add crucial runs alongside Mandhana.
Mandhana’s fifty and a 41-run partnership with Rodrigues provided stability. Richa Ghosh’s explosive 30 off 14 balls in the final overs helped India post a competitive total.
Sri Lanka’s Run Chase: Madavi and Athapaththu Lead the Way
Women’s Asia Cup 2024
Sri Lanka’s chase was anchored by Harshitha Madavi and Chamari Athapaththu. Despite an early run-out of Vishmi Gunaratne in the second over, Athapaththu and Madavi built a strong foundation. Athapaththu scored a swift 61 off 43 balls, while Madavi remained unbeaten with a solid 69 off 51 balls.
The pair added 87 runs for the second wicket, maintaining a steady run rate. After Deepti Sharma broke their partnership, Madavi continued to steer the innings with Kavisha Dilhari, who contributed a quickfire 30 off 16 balls.
The Decisive Moment
The game-changing moment came in the 18th over when Madavi and Dilhari took 17 runs off Radha Yadav’s bowling, making the target well within reach. With only eight runs needed from the final two overs, Sri Lanka comfortably completed the chase in 18.4 overs, securing their maiden Women’s Asia Cup title.
Key Performances
- India’s Batting Highlights: Smriti Mandhana (60), Jemimah Rodrigues (vital 41-run partnership), Richa Ghosh (30 off 14 balls).
- Sri Lanka’s Bowling: Kavisha Dilhari (2/36).
- Sri Lanka’s Batting Highlights: Harshitha Madavi (69*), Chamari Athapaththu (61), Kavisha Dilhari (30 off 16 balls).
Conclusion
The Women’s Asia Cup 2024 final showcased a thrilling contest between two strong teams, with Sri Lanka emerging as deserving champions. This victory not only ended India’s reign in the tournament but also marked a new chapter in Sri Lankan women’s cricket history. The win will inspire and motivate future generations of cricketers in Sri Lanka.
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Brief Scores
IND-W vs SL-W Women’s Asia Cup T20 2024 Final:
India: 165/6 in 20 overs (Smriti Mandhana 60, Kavisha Dilhari 2/36)
Sri Lanka: 167/2 in 18.4 overs (Harshitha Madavi 69*, Chamari Athapaththu 61)
Result: Sri Lanka won by eight wickets.
For more information on previous matches and statistics, check out our cricket archive.