Dubai, September 11 (Daily Kiran) : In an exciting semifinal of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 held in Dubai, Sri Lanka emerged victorious against Pakistan, winning by four wickets. This crucial win secured Sri Lanka’s place in the final, where they will face India on September 13.
Chasing a target of 131 runs set by Pakistan, Sri Lanka faced a rocky start. Captain Chamari Athapaththu was dismissed for just five runs by Fatima Sana. Sanjana Kavindi also failed to score, returning to the pavilion without a run. Hasini Perera contributed only three runs before falling, while Imesha Dulani managed 24 runs off 21 balls but could not capitalize on her start.
However, Harshitha Samarawickrama played a pivotal role, scoring 36 runs from 31 balls, including two boundaries. Kavisha Dilhari added another 33 runs to the scoreboard. In the final overs, Nilakshi de Silva showcased her skills, remaining unbeaten on 18 runs off just 10 balls, hitting three fours. Kaushani Nuthyangana also contributed with 10 not out off four balls. Nilakshi sealed the victory with a boundary off Fatima Sana’s delivery in the 19th over.
Earlier, Pakistan struggled after losing the toss and batting first. Muniba Ali was out for just two runs. Gul Firoza and Shawal Zulfiqar managed to add 24 runs for the second wicket before Firoza was dismissed for 21 runs from 32 balls. Zulfiqar also fell short, scoring 24 runs. Ayesha Jafar and Sadaf Shamas contributed minimal runs, with Jafar scoring seven and Shamas eight.
Pakistan’s captain Fatima Sana delivered a commendable performance, scoring 47 runs not out off 36 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes. She and Tuba Hasan, who scored 12 not out, combined for a sixth-wicket partnership that added 38 runs in 24 balls. Sri Lanka’s bowling was led by Chamari Athapaththu and Chamudi Prabodha, both taking two wickets.
The final promises to be an exciting clash as Sri Lanka prepares to take on India.
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