Sri Lanka Women Triumph Over West Indies in Historic T20I Victory

Sri Lanka's women's cricket team secured a historic victory over West Indies in the first T20I of the three-match series, marking their first triumph over the Caribbean side in this format since 2015.

The foundation for Sri Lanka's success was laid by the exceptional bowling performances of Chamari Athapaththu and Inoshi Priyadharshani. Athapaththu, who registered a career-best 4 for 29, and Priyadharshani, who claimed 3 for 28, combined to restrict West Indies to a modest total of 134 for 8.

In response, Sri Lanka's batters displayed resilience and determination. Vishmi Gunaratne and Harshitha Samarawickrama forged a crucial 46-run partnership for the second wicket, with Gunaratne contributing a brisk 35. Samarawickrama continued to anchor the innings, scoring 35 before being dismissed.

Despite losing wickets in quick succession, Sri Lanka remained composed. Nilakshika Silva played a crucial role in guiding the team to victory, remaining unbeaten on 17.

West Indies' batting effort was hampered by an injury to Stafanie Taylor, who was forced to leave the field in the third over. Hayley Matthews top-scored for the visitors with a run-a-ball 30, while Aaliyah Alleyne and Afy Fletcher provided some late impetus with a 33-run partnership.

The victory gives Sri Lanka a 1-0 lead in the series, which continues with the second T20I on Saturday.

Tags: #SriLankaCricket, #WestIndiesCricket, #WomensT20I, #ChamariAthapaththu, #InoshiPriyadharshani