In a rain-affected match at the Galle International Stadium, Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu played a sensational knock to guide her team to a historic series-winning victory over New Zealand. Athapaththu’s unbeaten century proved to be the defining factor in Sri Lankan Tigers’ maiden series win against the White Ferns.
Athapaththu’s outstanding knock of 140 runs came off just 80 balls, showcasing her exceptional batting skills. This was her second century in the three-match series, solidifying her reputation as a key player for Sri Lanka. Her innings included 13 fours and an impressive nine sixes, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s successful chase of the revised target of 196 runs in 29 overs.
Partnering with Nilakshi de Silva, Athapaththu built an unbroken 190-run partnership for the third wicket, which became the highest partnership for any wicket in Sri Lanka’s women cricket history. Their partnership proved to be the turning point of the match and propelled Sri Lanka towards victory.
Earlier in the game, New Zealand were 127 for 2 in 31 overs before rain interrupted play. Suzie Bates led the charge for the visiting side with an unbeaten 63 runs off 87 balls, setting a challenging target for Sri Lanka.
Due to the rain delay, Sri Lanka had to chase a revised target of 196 runs in 20 overs, and their start seemed shaky as they lost two early wickets for just six runs in 3.3 overs. However, Athapaththu showcased her determination and skill, taking charge of the innings and leading her team to a remarkable triumph. De Silva provided valuable support with an unbeaten 48 off 68 balls.
🔥 Chamari Athapaththu smashes an unbeaten 140* to chase down a target of 196 runs. What a Star ⭐! 💪👸#LionessRoar #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/b9jJqfaSqt
— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) July 3, 2023
Athapaththu was adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Series’ for her whirlwind performance with the bat.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.