The Indian women's cricket team delivered a commanding performance to secure a 30-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20 International match. This win at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Monday, July 8, 2024, extends India's dominant run in the ongoing series.
India's Batting Foundation and Sri Lanka's Fightback
After being asked to bat first, India posted a competitive total of 150 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by a solid opening partnership. Smriti Mandhana played a crucial knock, scoring 45 runs off 36 balls, which included six boundaries and one six. She found good support from Shafali Verma, who contributed 22 runs.
The middle order ensured the team maintained a healthy run rate. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur added a valuable 24 runs, while Richa Ghosh provided a late flourish with a quickfire 21 runs from just 13 deliveries. For the Sri Lankan bowlers, Inoshi Priyadharshani was the most successful, claiming two wickets for 25 runs.
Bowling Attack Seals the Deal for India
Defending the target, the Indian bowling unit put up a disciplined and effective show. The Sri Lankan batters struggled to build substantial partnerships against the consistent pressure. Opener Chamari Athapaththu tried to lead the chase with a brisk 28 off 19 balls, but her dismissal was a significant setback.
The Indian spinners were particularly instrumental in tightening the screws during the middle overs. Radha Yadav was the standout performer with the ball, taking three important wickets while conceding only 24 runs. The pace attack, led by Pooja Vastrakar who took two wickets, complemented the spinners perfectly. Sri Lanka's innings eventually concluded at 120 for 9 in 20 overs, falling well short of the target.
Series Context and Looking Ahead
This victory gives India an unassailable lead in the three-match T20I series. The team had previously won the first match, making this their second consecutive triumph. The final T20I will now be played at the same venue, offering Sri Lanka a chance to salvage a win and India an opportunity to complete a clean sweep.
The comprehensive performance, featuring contributions from both the batting and bowling departments, underscores the growing strength and depth of the Indian women's cricket team. The focus will now shift to the final match as the team aims to end the T20 leg of the tour on a high note before the ODI series commences.
