Sri Lanka Women claimed a six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the opening T20I of their series, with Imesha Dulani scoring an unbeaten century to guide a successful run chase in Dambulla.
Sri Lanka Women secured an emphatic opening victory in their T20I series against Pakistan, chasing down a target of 177 runs with six wickets remaining in Dambulla. After electing to field first, the hosts restricted Pakistan to 176 for 7 across their 20 overs, setting up an intriguing pursuit.
Pakistan's innings was built on several solid individual performances. Shawaal Zulfiqar played an aggressive innings of 63 from 41 balls, while captain Muneeba Ali contributed 42 from 24 deliveries. Additional support from Eman Naseer, Ayesha Zafar, and Saira Jabeen helped Pakistan post a competitive total. Sri Lankan bowlers Kavisha Dilhari and Sugandika Kumari limited the damage with key wickets during Pakistan's batting effort.
Sri Lanka's chase began with aggressive intent. Captain Chamari Athapaththu struck at the top of the order, scoring 39 from 22 balls with five fours and two sixes to establish momentum. Her departure briefly gave Pakistan hope for a potential turnaround, but Imesha Dulani's exceptional batting performance proved decisive. Dulani remained unbeaten on 101 from 64 deliveries, delivering the standout innings of her career and anchoring Sri Lanka's pursuit with precision and composure.
With support from the middle order, Sri Lanka successfully completed the chase in 19 overs, reaching 177 for 4 with one over unused. The victory gives the home side an early 1-0 series lead.
