LONDON: Chamari Athapaththu took charge as Sri Lanka secured a historic series victory over South Africa in East London, marking their first-ever triumph against the Proteas in any format. The decisive moment arrived in the third T20I, where Sri Lankan women cricket team chased down South Africa’s competitive total of 155/6 with just five deliveries to spare, recording their highest successful run chase in T20I history.
This feat, reminiscent of Chamari’s heroics over a decade ago against India, saw her blasting 73 runs off 46 balls, ably supported by Harshitha Samarawickrama’s unbeaten 54. This remarkable win adds to Sri Lanka’s recent successes away from home, having also clinched series victories against England and South Africa in the past year, a first for them outside of Asia.
In the series decider, Player of the Series Laura Wolvaardt’s 56 and Nadine de Klerk’s brisk 44 powered South Africa to a competitive total. Despite an early setback with the loss of Vishmi Gunaratne, Chamari and Samarawickrama’s partnership seized control until a crucial wicket by Marizanne Kapp brought a glimmer of hope for the hosts. However, Samarawickrama’s composed innings ensured Sri Lanka’s triumph as they crossed the finish line, securing a historic series win.
Looking ahead, the teams are set to clash in a three-match ODI series, with Sri Lanka subsequently gearing up for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers in Abu Dhabi, joining nine other contenders in the quest for glory.
