England Women continued their dominant run in the ICC Women’s World Cup with a comprehensive 89-run victory over Sri Lanka in their Group Stage clash held yesterday at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bowl first, handing England the opportunity to bat. England posted a strong total of 253 for 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs, led by a magnificent innings from Nat Sciver, who scored 117 runs — her 10th career ODI century and fifth in a World Cup.
Earlier in the innings, Amy Jones (11) and Tammy Beaumont (32) provided a steady start before being dismissed. Captain Heather Knight added 29, while Sophia Dunkley contributed 18. Sri Lankan spinner Inoka Ranaweera bowled impressively, taking 3 wickets for 33 runs, while Sugandika Kumari chipped in with 2 wickets.
In reply, Sri Lanka’s batters struggled to build partnerships against England’s disciplined attack and were bowled out for 164 runs in 45.4 overs. Harshitha Samarawickrama top-scored for Sri Lanka with 33 runs.
For England, left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone was outstanding, claiming 4 wickets, tightening the grip in the middle overs.
This match also marked a special milestone for Sri Lanka Women, as it was their 200th One-Day International in women’s cricket history.