Dambulla, 26 July 2024: Pakistan women fell short in the ACC T20 Asia Cup 2024 semi-final clash to Sri Lanka by three wickets in a nail-biting finish here at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Friday.

Pakistan posted 140 runs for four as their innings was buoyed by three solid partnerships. Later, Sri Lanka pulled off a sensational chase riding on batting guiles of their captain Chamari Athapaththu to get 141 for seven in 19.5 overs.

Pakistan inflicted two early blows on Sri Lanka and pushed the home side in their chase. However, Athapaththu steadied the ship with a crucial knock of 63 runs off 48 balls, including nine fours and a six. Her innings was instrumental in guiding Sri Lanka towards the target.

A crucial 59-run partnership between Athapaththu and Kavisha Dilhari revived the chase. The 42-run stand between Athapaththu and Anushka Sanjeewani (24 not out, 22b, 1×4, 1×6) strengthened Sri Lanka’s position. Sanjeewani played a calm and composed innings, ensuring her team crossed the line.

Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by Sadia Iqbal, who impressed with career-best figures of four for 16. Omaima Sohail and Nida Dar picked up one wicket each.

Pakistan’s innings was highlighted by a strong start provided by the opening pair of Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali, who shared a 61-run partnership.

Gull contributed 25 runs off 24 balls, including three boundaries, while Muneeba played a more aggressive role, scoring 37 runs off 34 balls with five fours.

The middle-order provided some stability, with Sidra Amin and Nida Dar adding 30 runs for the third wicket. Nida showcased her hitting prowess with 23 off 17 balls, including two fours and a six.

The innings gained further momentum through an unbroken 41-run partnership between Aliya Riaz (16 not out, 15b, 1×6) and Fatima Sana (23 not out, 17 b, 3x4s).

Sri Lanka’s bowling was led by Udeshika Prabodhani and Dilhari, who claimed two wickets each, conceding 23 and 30 runs respectively.

Scores in brief:

Sri Lanka win by three wickets

Pakistan Women 140-4, 20 overs (Muneeba Ali 37, Gull Feroza 25, Nida Dar 23, Fatima Sana 23 not out; Udeshika Prabodhani 2-23, Kavisha Dilhari 2-30)

Sri Lanka Women 141-7, 19.5 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 63, Anushka Sanjeewani 24 not out, Kavisha Dilhari 17; Sadia Iqbal 4-16, Omaima Sohail 1-16, Nida Dar 1-20)

Player of the match: Chamari Athapaththu (Sri Lanka women)