Sri Lanka A Women secured a thrilling 3-wicket victory over New Zealand A Women in the opening T20 match played in Dambulla, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Batting first, New Zealand A Women posted 129 for 6 in their 20 overs. Kate Gaging top-scored with 35 runs, while Sri Lanka’s bowling attack impressed through Chamudi Prabhoda, Sathya Sandeepani, and Sachini Nisansala, who picked up two wickets each.
In reply, Sri Lanka A Women chased down the target in 19.3 overs with seven wickets down. Vishmi Gunaratne contributed 27 runs, while Piumi Wathsala remained unbeaten on 21. Shashini Gimhani also played a crucial finishing role with an unbeaten 26 to guide the hosts over the line.
For New Zealand A, Kayley Knight and Hannah Rowe claimed two wickets apiece, but it wasn’t enough to stop Sri Lanka from sealing an exciting win.
With the victory, Sri Lanka A Women now lead the three-match T20 series 1-0.