Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team roared back in style, defeating Bangladesh by 4 wickets in the second ODI to draw level in the three-match series. The victory at Dhaka’s iconic venue ensures a grandstand finish in the decider on Friday.
Opting to set a total, Bangladesh’s batswomen faltered against disciplined Sri Lankan bowling. Openers Juairia Ferdous (2) and Sharmin Akter (0) departed cheaply, leaving the hosts in dire straits. Nigar Sultana’s resolute 58 (101 balls, 4×4) provided the backbone, complemented by useful contributions from Sarmmin Sultana (25), Nahida Akter (20), and Ritu Moni (17). Yet, they managed only 165 all out.
Chamari Athapaththu spearheaded the bowling attack with a haul of 3/36, ably supported by pacers and spinners who shared the remaining wickets equally.
In reply, Sri Lanka navigated early turbulence after losing an opener. Athapaththu’s explosive 40, laced with eight fours, laid the foundation alongside partnerships with Dushanka and Samarawickrama. The duo of Harshita Samarawickrama (unbeaten fifty) and Hansima Karunaratne then took charge, their 77-run stand proving decisive in a comfortable chase completed with overs to spare.
Bangladesh’s Nahida Akter shone with 4 wickets, but Sri Lanka’s batting depth prevailed. This equalizer keeps the series alive, promising edge-of-the-seat action in the rubber match.
