Historic Series Victory for Sri Lanka’s Women’s Team Against South Africa
In a historic moment for Sri Lankan cricket, the women’s team clinched their first-ever series win against South Africa in any format on Wednesday in East London.
The series win was sealed with a thrilling four-wicket victory over South Africa in the final match of the series, marking their highest successful run chase in T20I cricket history.
South Africa v Sri Lanka: The Scorecard
The previous record for Sri Lanka’s highest successful run chase was set over a decade ago when Chamari Athapaththu scored 21 to edge past India’s total of 147/3 in Vizianagaram. Athapaththu was once again in the spotlight in South Africa, contributing significantly to the victory.
Athapaththu delivered a stellar performance, scoring 73 off just 46 balls, while Harshitha Samarawickrama contributed an unbeaten 54, helping Sri Lanka chase down South Africa’s formidable total of 155/6 with five balls to spare.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Sri Lankan women’s cricket, as it is their first T20I series win over South Africa in East London. #SAvSL scorecard https://t.co/iZM9ponTKR pic.twitter.com/DNpO13AwTg
This victory is a testament to Sri Lanka’s recent impressive form, having defeated both England and South Africa in bilateral T20I series away from home in the past year, a feat they had never achieved before outside of Asia.
Earlier in the match, Laura Wolvaardt, the Player of the Series, contributed 56 runs, while Nadine de Klerk added a quick 44, helping South Africa post a competitive total in the series decider.
Despite an early setback with the loss of Vishmi Gunaratne for just one run, Sri Lanka took control of the match with Athapaththu and Samarawickrama at the crease. However, the game remained competitive with Marizanne Kapp dismissing the Sri Lankan captain in the 13th over.
Despite the pressure, Samarawickrama maintained her composure in the final overs, ensuring Sri Lanka’s victory and the historic series win.
The teams will now face off in a three-match ODI series. Following this, Sri Lanka will head to Abu Dhabi at the end of the month to compete as one of the 10 teams attempting to qualify for this year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.