The Indian women's cricket team convincingly defeated Sri Lanka by 97 runs in the final of the triangular series held in Colombo, clinching the title. A magnificent century by Smriti Mandhana and impactful bowling spells from Sneha Rana and Amanjot Kaur spearheaded India's victory.
Sports News: India triumphed in the triangular series final, defeating Sri Lanka by 97 runs. In this decisive match played in Colombo, India, after winning the toss and electing to bat, posted a challenging 342/7 in 50 overs. Smriti Mandhana's stellar century played a crucial role in this impressive total. Chasing a formidable target, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 245 in 48.2 overs. Chamari Athapaththu top-scored for Sri Lanka with 51 runs.
India's Explosive Batting Display
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, the Indian team adopted an aggressive approach from the outset. Openers Pritika Rawal and Smriti Mandhana forged a 70-run partnership for the first wicket. Rawal contributed 30 runs off 49 balls, including two boundaries. Mandhana then combined with Harleen Deol, adding a further 120 runs for the second wicket.
Smriti Mandhana smashed her 12th ODI century, a breathtaking 116 off 101 balls, laced with 15 fours and 2 sixes. Her innings was instrumental in propelling India to a commanding total. Harleen Deol supported with a 47-run knock off 56 balls. In the middle order, captain Harmanpreet Kaur blazed 41 runs off 30 balls (4 fours, 1 six), and Jemimah Rodrigues added a quick-fire 44 off 29 balls. Together they added a valuable 48-run partnership.
Richa Ghosh (8), Amanjot Kaur (18), Deepti Sharma (20*), and Kranti Gauड़ (0*) guided India to a final total of 342. For Sri Lanka, Malsha Shehani, Sugandika Kumari, and Devmie Weerawansa claimed two wickets each, while Inoka Ranaweera took one.
Sri Lanka's Faltering Chase
Sri Lanka's chase began poorly. Amanjot Kaur struck early, dismissing Hasini Perera for a duck in the very first over. Vishmi Gunaratne (36) and captain Chamari Athapaththu (51) then offered some resistance, adding a 68-run partnership for the second wicket, but Amanjot Kaur dismissed both, derailing Sri Lanka's hopes.
Nilakshika Silva scored 48, while Harshitha Samarawickrama contributed 26. Anushka Sanjeewani (28) and Sugandika Kumari (27) played some good shots in the middle order, but couldn't steer their team to victory. Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 245 in 48.2 overs, handing India a 97-run win.
Rana and Amanjot's Bowling Prowess
The Indian bowlers delivered a disciplined performance. Sneha Rana was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4 wickets in her 10 overs and dismantling the middle order. Amanjot Kaur provided crucial early breakthroughs with 3 wickets. S. Charani also chipped in with a wicket. This victory showcased the Indian women's team's strength in both batting and match-winning bowling.
