Sri Lanka scripted a record-breaking run-chase to defeat Pakistan in the 1st Semi-Final of the Women’s Cricket Competition at the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, securing their place in the Gold Medal match.
Having won the toss, Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapaththu elected to bowl first. Pakistan got off to a strong start and posted 177 runs for 4 wickets in their allotted 20 overs, with Ayesha Zafar and Shawaal Zulfiqar leading the way with impressive half-centuries. Zafar top-scored with 71 runs, while Zulfiqar contributed 54.
Sri Lanka made light work of the challenging target, producing a brilliant batting display to chase down 178 runs in just 17.5 overs while losing only two wickets.
Athapaththu led from the front when it mattered most, smashing a match-winning 83 runs off 50 balls. Her innings included seven fours and six sixes as she took control of the chase and put Sri Lanka firmly in command.
Hasini Perera provided excellent support at No. 3, playing an aggressive cameo of 42 runs off 26 deliveries, including three fours and three sixes.
The commanding chase also etched Sri Lanka into the record books, becoming their highest successful run-chase in Women’s T20I cricket.
With the victory, Sri Lanka have booked their place in the Gold Medal match of the Asian Games 2026. They will face either India or Bangladesh in the final, which will be played on September 22.
Brief Scores
Pakistan – 177/4 (20) Ayesha Zafar 71, Shawaal Zulfiqar 54
Sri Lanka – 178/2 (17.5) Chamari Athapaththu 83*, Hasini Perera 42, Imesha Dulani 27
Result – Sri Lanka won by 8 wickets
