Pakistan Women made a winning start to the three-match ODI series, defeating Sri Lanka Women by five wickets in the opening match at Hambantota to take a 1-0 lead. After opting to bat first, Sri Lanka Women posted 210/9 in their allotted 50 overs, setting Pakistan a target of 211.
For Pakistan, Nashra Sandhu was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets, while Tasmia Rubab picked up two. In reply, Pakistan Women chased down the target of 211 with five wickets in hand, reaching 211/5 in 43 overs. Gull Feroza starred with a superb 78, while Sidra Amin contributed a composed 57, playing a crucial role in Pakistan’s successful run chase.
The second ODI of the three-match series will be played on Saturday. A victory would give Pakistan an unassailable series win, while Sri Lanka will be aiming to level the series at 1-1.
Gull Feroza led Pakistan’s successful chase with a brilliant 78 off 77 balls, smashing 11 boundaries, while Sidra Amin played a composed innings of 57 from 94 deliveries, hitting five fours to anchor the run chase.
Ayesha Zafar remained unbeaten on 27 off 31 balls, including a four and a six, while opener Sadaf Shamas contributed 20 from 27 deliveries with three boundaries.
For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was the standout bowler, taking 2/37 in nine overs. Inoka Ranaweera, Nimasha Meepage, and captain Chamari Athapaththu claimed one wicket each.
Earlier, Sri Lanka managed 210/9 in their allotted 50 overs after struggling to build strong partnerships. No Sri Lankan batter could reach a half-century as Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack kept the hosts under constant pressure.
Captain Chamari Athapaththu and Nilakshika Silva were Sri Lanka’s top scorers, both making 46 runs. Athapaththu struck six boundaries in her 67-ball innings, while Silva’s 50-ball knock included two fours.
