Sri Lanka delivered an emphatic performance, securing an 81-run victory over West Indies in their Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup Group A match in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday. This marks Sri Lanka’s second consecutive win in the competition, following their triumph over Malaysia.
Sri Lanka’s Record-Breaking Batting Performance
After opting to bat first, Sri Lanka posted the tournament’s highest score so far, reaching 166 for 5. Key contributions came from opener Sanjana Kavindi (39 off 36 balls), skipper Manudi Nanayakkara (41 off 31), and middle-order batter Dahami Sanethma (31 not out off 25). Extras also played a significant role, contributing 36 runs to the total.
This surpassed Sri Lanka’s own previous best of 162 for 6 against Malaysia.
Praboda’s Powerplay Magic
West Indies struggled in their chase, thanks largely to left-arm spinner Chamodi Praboda, who dismantled their top order during the powerplay. Praboda picked up 3 for 16, removing Asabi Callender, Naijanni Cumberbatch, and Jahzara Claxton, effectively sealing the game early.
West Indies’ Batting Woes
Despite some resistance from captain Samara Ramnath (24 off 23), West Indies were unable to recover. Only three other batters—Claxton, Amrita Ramtahal, and Kenika Casaar—managed to reach double digits.
Sri Lankan bowler Aseni Thalagune also impressed, taking 2 for 16, as West Indies fell short, finishing on 90 all out, far behind the required target.
Looking Ahead
With two wins in as many games, Sri Lanka now lead Group A. Hosts Malaysia and defending champions India, also in the same group, are set to clash later in the day.
