News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/29th July 2024
Sri Lanka has etched its name in the annals of cricket history by clinching its first-ever Women’s Asia Cup title, with a commanding eight-wicket victory over the defending champions, India. The match, held on July 28, 2024, saw a stellar performance from Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu and the resolute Harshitha Samarawickrama, leading their team to a memorable win.
Athapaththu, known for her aggressive batting, delivered a high-octane fifty that set the tone for Sri Lanka’s chase. Her innings was complemented by Samarawickrama, who also scored a crucial half-century. Their contributions were instrumental in steering Sri Lanka to their historic triumph. The victory not only marked a significant achievement for Sri Lankan women’s cricket but also highlighted the depth of talent within their squad.
In her post-match reflections, Athapaththu expressed immense satisfaction with her team’s performance. “I am really happy with how the team played, especially with our batting. It was not just a one-person show; everyone contributed. Winning the Asia Cup is a dream come true, and this victory is crucial for inspiring young cricketers in Sri Lanka,” she said. Athapaththu, who was named the Player of the Tournament, emphasized her dedication to the sport and her future aspirations, including the upcoming World Cup. She remains focused on leading her team with positivity and determination.
On the other hand, Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian captain, acknowledged Sri Lanka’s superior performance in the final. “We played good cricket throughout the tournament, but unfortunately, the PowerPlay didn’t go our way today. Sri Lanka played exceptionally well, and they deserved their victory,” Kaur commented. Despite the setback, Kaur recognized the team’s efforts throughout the competition and the areas that need improvement.
Harshitha Samarawickrama, who was named Player of the Match, expressed her joy at contributing significantly in the final. “I am very happy to have scored in such an important match. I had some setbacks in the past, but I am glad to have performed well against India today. When Chamari got out, we decided to play positively and keep the momentum going,” Samarawickrama said. Her decisive innings not only earned her the match award but also underscored her potential as a key player for Sri Lanka.
The victory at the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 is a testament to Sri Lanka’s growing prowess in women’s cricket. It marks a new chapter for Sri Lankan cricket, demonstrating their ability to compete at the highest level and achieve significant milestones. As they bask in the glory of their maiden title, Sri Lanka will look to build on this success and continue their journey with renewed confidence and ambition.
