Sylhet International Cricket Stadium witnessed a clinical performance from Sri Lanka women as they outplayed Bangladesh by 25 runs in the first T20I on Monday. Electing to bat, Sri Lanka recovered from an early stumble to amass 161/4, propelled by maiden half-centuries from Harshita and Imesha.
Hasini Perera’s quick exit for 7 put pressure on the top order, but Chamari Atapattu (32 off 30) and Imesha Dulani combined for a vital 42-run stand. Post Atapattu’s dismissal, Harshita joined Imesha to stitch a match-defining 80-run alliance for the third wicket.
Imesha’s elegant 55 came off 40 balls laced with 7 boundaries, while Harshita’s aggressive 61 off 35 featured 5 fours and 2 massive sixes. Bangladesh bowlers Sultana Khatun (2/29), Marufa Akter, and Nahida Akter grabbed a wicket each but were expensive.
Chasing 162, Bangladesh’s batting imploded despite Sharona Akter’s fighting 60 off 45 (4×4, 2×6). The rest faltered: Juairia (16), Sharmin (1), Nigar (0), Dilara (23 off 14), and Sobhana (16). Sri Lanka’s attack was spearheaded by Malki Madara’s 2/31, with Ayodya and skipper Atapattu (both 2 wickets) sealing the deal at 136/7.
With this commanding win, Sri Lanka leads the series 1-0, showcasing their depth and firepower in white-ball cricket.
