Nilakshika Silva’s brilliant half century and some sensible batting in the lower order saw Sri Lanka scrape through to a 3 wicket win over India in the fourth match of the women’s triangular series at the Premadasa Stadium.
Sri Lankan chase saw a few crucial partnerships but none was as telling as the 40 added for the unbeaten 8th wicket between Anushka Sanjeewani and Sugandika Kumari more known for her left arm orthodox spin bowling. Kumari was a revelation hitting 2 fours in her 19 no made off 20 balls. Sri Lanka looked to be in discomfort with not much batting left. Sanjeewani who batted a slot down to promote Dewmi Vihanga in the order appeared to be the last hope.
In the chase of 276 Vishmi Gunaratne provided solid support to Harshitha Samarawickrama who scored her second 50 in as many days – in their 78 run liaison for the second wicket. Hasini Perera who opened with Gunaratne set the trend in the easy paced pitch with good stroke making before being run out for 22.
Nilakshika was at her brilliant best taking just 33 balls with five fours and three sixes in her pivotal innings.
Kavisha Dilhari the ever reliable was chipping in with a knock of 35 with five fours.
The Indian innings after being put in was off to its familiar brisk start with Rawal and Mandhana putting on 50 in the tenth over.
A consistent show of batting prowess it was with Richa Ghosh standing out with some lusty blows off rather pedestrian looking Sri Lanka attack.
None of the bowlers looked threatening while skipper Atapattu and batting heroine Sugandika Kumari taking three wickets each.
The win surely be ranked one of Sri Lankan womens best in the ODI circuit and should provide a boost to their hopes of reaching the final.
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