Sri Lanka produced a commanding batting performance to register a convincing victory over Pakistan in the second Women’s ODI of the three-match series played today (25th July) at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota. The comprehensive win helped the hosts level the series 1-1 ahead of the decider.
After opting to bat first in the opening ODI, Sri Lanka won the toss this time and elected to field. Pakistan responded with a competitive total of 273 for 5 in their allotted 50 overs, thanks largely to an outstanding century from opener Sidra Amin.
Amin remained unbeaten on exactly 100 from 120 deliveries, striking 13 boundaries during her composed innings. She anchored Pakistan’s batting effort, while Sri Lanka’s bowlers shared the wickets. Captain Chamari Athapaththu, Chethana Vimukthi, Inoka Ranaweera and Kaveesha Dilhari claimed one wicket apiece.
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Chasing 274 for victory, Sri Lanka made light work of the target, reaching it in just 46.5 overs with eight wickets in hand after a magnificent display from Vishmi Gunarathne and Harshitha Samarawickrama.
After the early loss of a wicket, the pair took complete control of the innings, combining caution with aggressive stroke play to put Pakistan’s bowlers under sustained pressure.
Gunarathne starred with a superb 123 off 123 balls, an innings featuring 11 boundaries and a six, while Samarawickrama remained unbeaten on 100 from 119 deliveries, striking nine fours to complete her second ODI century.
The pair’s match-winning stand was also a historic one. They added 203 runs for the second wicket off 211 balls, setting a new record for the highest partnership for any wicket in Sri Lanka Women’s ODI history.
Their record-breaking partnership not only guided Sri Lanka to a comfortable victory but also ensured the series remains alive heading into the third and final ODI.
 at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota. The comprehensive win helped the hosts level the series 1-1 ahead of the decider.){kind=link}