Bangladesh Women secured a hard-fought victory over Sri Lanka Women in the opening ODI of the three-match series played today (20th April) in Rajshahi, taking an early 1-0 lead.
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka’s stand-in skipper Hasini Perera elected to bat first. The visitors put up a competitive total of 205 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs, thanks largely to solid contributions from Hansima Karunaratne and Imesha Dulani, both of whom registered well-crafted half-centuries to anchor the innings.
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Despite the steady platform, Sri Lanka were unable to fully capitalize in the latter stages, with Bangladesh pulling things back through disciplined bowling. Ritu Moni was the standout performer with the ball for the hosts, claiming 3 wickets for 36 runs and playing a key role in restricting the total.
In reply, Bangladesh were made to work hard for their runs as Sri Lanka kept applying pressure throughout the chase. The hosts, however, managed to hold their nerve and eventually reached the target of 206 in the 49th over, finishing with just three wickets in hand.
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The cornerstone of the chase was a brilliant innings from Sharmin Akhter, who led from the front with a match-winning 86 off 127 deliveries, striking 13 boundaries in a composed and determined knock.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers put up a commendable fight, with off-spinner Dewmi Vihanga leading the charge. She delivered an impressive spell, picking up 3 wickets for 43 runs in her 10 overs to keep her side in contention until the closing stages.
Brief Scores
Sri Lanka Women – 205/9 (50) Hansima Karunaratne 54, Imesha Dulani 52, Kavisha Dilhari 30, Hasini Perera 27, Ritu Moni 3/36
Bangladesh Women – 206/7 (48.3) Sharmin Akhter 86, Dewmi Vihanga 3/43, Malki Madara 2/37
Result – Bangladesh Women won by 3 wickets
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