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Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hassan Reportedly Offers to Resign.

Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hassan Reportedly Offers to Resign.

Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hassan Reportedly Offers to Resign.

Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hassan Reportedly Offers to Resign.

Officials within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) claim that President Nazmul Hassan has offered to resign in a bid to cooperate with the Muhammad Yunus-led government on implementing reforms.

Hassan, who is currently serving his fourth term as BCB President, has reportedly been in hiding in London since unrest began in the country, leading to the downfall of the Sheikh Hasina government.

According to a report by Cricbuzz, several BCB directors in Dhaka met on August 14 to discuss their next steps. In recent days, former BCB officials and organizers have gathered at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, demanding the resignation of Hassan and his associates, whose term ends in October 2025.

“One of our directors is in contact with him, and Papon bhai is ready to cooperate with the government and is prepared to step down as president to facilitate board reforms,” a BCB director said.

Another director mentioned that if the board transitions to an elected body, it will require full cooperation from the interim government. “If the president resigns, he can request a board meeting to formalize his resignation and initiate the election process,” added a veteran director.

When asked about the process if Hassan resigns, the director explained, “According to our constitution, any resignation must be submitted to the board, which will then convene to accept or reject it. If accepted, an election will be held among the 25 board directors to fill the vacancy of president and vice president.”

Mankading: The Controversial Dismissal That Keeps Cricket Fans Talking

Mankading: The Controversial Dismissal That Keeps Cricket Fans Talking

Mankading: The Controversial Dismissal That Keeps Cricket Fans Talking

Mankading: The Controversial Dismissal That Keeps Cricket Fans Talking

The term “Mankad” has been reverberating through cricket stadiums and living rooms alike, igniting passionate debates among fans, players, and commentators. But what exactly is Mankading, and why does it evoke such strong emotions?

What is Mankading?

Mankading refers to a mode of dismissal in cricket where the bowler runs out the non-striker before delivering the ball. The non-striker is deemed out if they leave their crease before the bowler initiates their delivery stride. The term “Mankading” originates from Indian cricketer Vinoo Mankad, who famously executed this method to dismiss Australian batsman Bill Brown during a Test match in 1947.

The Controversy Surrounding Mankading

Although Mankading is a legal method of dismissal, it has sparked heated debates. Critics argue that it contravenes the spirit of the game, while supporters assert that it is a valid tactic to dismiss a batsman.

Spirit of the Game

Many believe that Mankading goes against the spirit of cricket, which is often associated with fair play and sportsmanship. They contend that bowlers should concentrate on bowling rather than attempting to catch the non-striker off guard.

Fair Play

Conversely, proponents of Mankading argue that it is a legitimate way to dismiss a batsman. They emphasize that the non-striker is violating the rules by leaving the crease early, and the bowler is merely enforcing the law.

Notable Mankading Incidents

Throughout cricket history, several high-profile Mankading incidents have captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. Some of the most memorable examples include:

Vinoo Mankad vs. Bill Brown**: The original incident that gave the dismissal its name.

R. Ashwin vs. Jos Buttler: An IPL match that ignited a significant debate over the legitimacy of Mankading.

Deepti Sharma vs. Charlotte Dean: A recent incident in women’s cricket that reignited the Mankading controversy.

The Future of Mankading

As Mankading incidents become more frequent, cricket governing bodies face mounting pressure to address the issue. While the current laws permit Mankading, there have been calls for rule changes to discourage its practice.

 

What are your thoughts? Should Mankading remain a part of cricket, or should it be banned for contradicting the spirit of the game? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Conclusion

Mankading is a multifaceted issue with no straightforward resolution. It is a topic that will continue to spark debate and discussion among cricket enthusiasts for years to come. Whether you support or oppose Mankading, one thing is clear: it adds an intriguing layer of excitement and unpredictability to the game.

However, the West Indies showed immense character and determination. Alick Athanaze, playing only his eighth Test, was the star of the show. His gritty 92 was a masterclass in patience and resilience. The partnership between Athanaze and Jason Holder proved to be the backbone of the West Indies’ innings, frustrating the South African bowlers.

Devastated South Africa reflect on missed opportunity

South Africa left ruing missed opportunities. Can they bounce back in St. Lucia?

South Africa left ruing missed opportunities. Can they bounce back in St. Lucia?

South Africa left ruing missed opportunities. Can they bounce back in St. Lucia?

The first Test between West Indies and South Africa in Trinidad was a rollercoaster of emotions, with rain playing the ultimate spoilsport. A thrilling contest was on the cards, but the weather had other plans.

 

South Africa's Aggressive Intent

The Proteas came out firing on all cylinders, with Tony de Zorzi and Aiden Markram setting the tone. Their aggressive approach, coupled with Tristan Stubbs’ blistering cameo, put the West Indies on the back foot. South Africa’s decision to declare early on the final day was a bold one, signaling their intent to push for a victory.

South Africa 1st Innings

  • 357 all out (89.5 overs)
  • Temba Bavuma: 86 (173)
  • Tony de Zorzi: 78 (122)
  • Jomel Warrican: 4/69
  • Jayden Seales: 3/67

West Indies 1st Innings

  • 233 all out (69.5 overs)
  • Keacy Carty: 42 (75)
  • Jason Holder: 36 (58)
  • Keshav Maharaj: 4/76
  • Kagiso Rabada: 3/56

West Indies' Resilient Response

However, the West Indies showed immense character and determination. Alick Athanaze, playing only his eighth Test, was the star of the show. His gritty 92 was a masterclass in patience and resilience. The partnership between Athanaze and Jason Holder proved to be the backbone of the West Indies’ innings, frustrating the South African bowlers.

South Africa 2nd Innings

  • 173/3 declared (41.1 overs)
  • Tristan Stubbs: 68 (44)
  • Tony de Zorzi: 45 (60)
  • Jomel Warrican: 1/30

West Indies 2nd Innings

  • 201/5 (61.4 overs)
  • Alick Athanaze: 92 (139)
  • Jason Holder: 31* (50)
  • Keshav Maharaj: 4/88

Player of the Match

  • Alick Athanaze

Bowling Woes for South Africa

The Proteas’ bowling attack came under immense pressure, with Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada shouldering the bulk of the workload. While they toiled tirelessly, the lack of a fifth frontline bowling option proved to be a significant factor. The pitch, which offered little assistance to the bowlers, compounded their problems.

Questions Over Selection and Pitch

South Africa’s decision to opt for an extra batter at the expense of a specialist bowler raised eyebrows. The pitch at Queen’s Park Oval, lacking pace and bounce, also came under scrutiny. The attritional nature of the match, with frequent rain interruptions, made it difficult for both teams to establish dominance.

Key Stats

  • Alick Athanaze’s 92 was his highest Test score.
  • Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada bowled a combined 96.2 overs.
  • South Africa lost 142 overs to rain across the five days.
  • This was the first drawn Test worldwide since July last year.

A Draw That Leaves Questions Unanswered

Ultimately, the match ended in a draw, leaving fans craving more. While West Indies will be delighted to have salvaged a draw, South Africa will be disappointed to have let a potential victory slip through their fingers. Athanaze’s heroics and the unpredictable weather conditions ensured that this Test match will be remembered for years to come.

The series now moves to St. Lucia, with both teams eager to make a strong start. With the weather playing a significant role in the first Test, fans will be hoping for better conditions for the second match.

However, the West Indies showed immense character and determination. Alick Athanaze, playing only his eighth Test, was the star of the show. His gritty 92 was a masterclass in patience and resilience. The partnership between Athanaze and Jason Holder proved to be the backbone of the West Indies’ innings, frustrating the South African bowlers.

SA skipper Bavuma falls short of ton against Windies

Temba Bavuma Falls Short of Century as South Africa Reach 344/8 on Day 2 Against West Indies

Temba Bavuma Falls Short of Century as South Africa Reach 344/8 on Day 2 Against West Indies

Temba Bavuma Falls Short of Century as South Africa Reach 344/8 on Day 2 Against West Indies

In a surprising upset, Sri Lanka has triumphed over India in the three-match ODI series, marking their first series win against the Men in Blue in 27 years. The Lankans secured the series with an impressive 110-run victory in the final ODI held on Wednesday.

Match Overview

The second day of the first Test between South Africa and West Indies saw Temba Bavuma fall just short of a well-deserved century. Bavuma was the top scorer for the Proteas with a knock of 97, while Tony de Zorzi chipped in with a valuable 76.

South Africa will resume batting on day three with the hope of extending their lead and putting the Windies under pressure.

Bavuma's Fightback

Bavuma’s innings was a crucial one for South Africa, who had lost early wickets. The right-hander showed great determination and grit to anchor the innings and build partnerships with the middle order. He struck some exquisite boundaries and looked well on his way to a hundred.

De Zorzi Provides Support

De Zorzi played a vital role in supporting Bavuma from the other end. The left-hander played some sensible cricket and helped to frustrate the West Indian bowlers. His knock of 76 was a crucial contribution to South Africa’s total.

South Africa in Control

With a score of 344/8 on the board, South Africa are in a strong position in the match. They will look to add some quick runs early on day three before bowling out the Windies and taking a significant first-innings lead.

Looking Ahead

The third day of the Test promises to be an exciting one. South Africa will be looking to bat for a while longer and put themselves in a commanding position. The Windies, on the other hand, will need to take wickets early on to restrict the lead and make a comeback in the match.

 

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Sri Lanka Stuns India, Claims ODI Series After 27 Years!

Sri Lanka Stuns India, Claims ODI Series After 27 Years!

Sri Lanka Stuns India, Claims ODI Series After 27 Years!

Sri Lanka Stuns India, Claims ODI Series After 27 Years!

In a surprising upset, Sri Lanka has triumphed over India in the three-match ODI series, marking their first series win against the Men in Blue in 27 years. The Lankans secured the series with an impressive 110-run victory in the final ODI held on Wednesday.

Match Overview

Chasing a target of 249 runs, India faltered under pressure, unable to combat the skilled spin bowling. Dunith Wellalage, the standout Sri Lankan spinner, took 5 wickets, making history as the first bowler to claim multiple five-wicket hauls against India in ODIs. India’s batting struggled, with only Rohit Sharma (35) and Washington Sundar (30) putting up some resistance.

 

Earlier, Sri Lanka set a competitive score of 248/7, spearheaded by Avishka Fernando’s impressive knock of 96. The Indian bowlers faced difficulties in containing the Lankan batsmen, with Riyan Parag being the most effective, taking 3 wickets.

Reactions

Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka expressed his joy at the victory, attributing their success to a strong spin attack and a positive team atmosphere. Indian captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged Sri Lanka’s dominance and expressed a commitment to learn from the team’s shortcomings.

Key Statistics

India lost 27 wickets to spin, the highest for any team in a bilateral ODI series.

– Dunith Wellalage becomes the first bowler to take multiple five-wicket hauls against India in ODIs.

– This victory marks Sri Lanka’s first ODI series win against India since 1997.

Implications

Sri Lanka’s victory is a significant upset and raises concerns about India’s performance in ODIs. The team will need to reassess their strategies, particularly in handling spin bowling, to regain their competitive edge. For Sri Lanka, this series win is a substantial boost, highlighting their skills and competitive spirit.

Looking Ahead

As both teams prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup, India aims to address their ODI setbacks and adapt to the challenges of the shorter format. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, buoyed by their recent success, hopes to maintain their winning momentum on the international stage.

West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test: Match Preview

West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test: Match Preview

West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test: Match Preview

West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test: Match Preview

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly anticipating the first Test of a two-match series between the West Indies and South Africa, commencing on Wednesday, August 7, at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, Trinidad. This match promises to be an exciting contest, as both teams look to assert their dominance on the international stage.

Recent Form and Context

The West Indies are coming off a tough series against England, where they suffered a 0-3 defeat. However, some players showed signs of improvement despite the losses. Under the leadership of Kraigg Brathwaite, the team faced challenges at Lord’s, Trent Bridge, and Edgbaston but exhibited resilience, which they will look to build upon at home against South Africa.

 

In the series against England, Kavem Hodge stood out as a key figure, finishing as the third-highest run-scorer with a total of 216 runs, including a remarkable 120 off 171 balls in the second Test. Additionally, Jayden Seales emerged as a crucial bowling asset, claiming 13 wickets and proving his ability to test opposing top-order batsmen.

 

Key Players for West Indies

Kavem Hodge: After a strong showing in England, Hodge will be a cornerstone of the batting lineup.

 

Jayden Seales: His impressive wicket tally in the previous series underlines his potential to make a significant impact.

 

The team will also benefit from the return of veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach, who missed the England series due to injury. However, the absence of Alzarri Joseph, who has been rested, presents a notable challenge. Keacy Carty is expected to make his debut, taking the place of Kirk McKenzie, who struggled during the England series.

Predicted XI:

– Kraigg Brathwaite (C)

– Mikyle Louis

– Keacy Carty

– Alick Athanaze

– Kavem Hodge

– Jason Holder

Joshua Da Silva (WK)

– Gudakesh Motie

– Kemar Roach

– Jayden Seales

– Shamar Joseph

 

South Africa’s Preparations

South Africa last competed in a Test series against New Zealand back in February. Despite the absence of several key players who participated in the SA20 league, the younger South African squad showed promise, though they lost both matches.

 

David Bedingham emerged as a standout performer, scoring important runs including a vital 110-run innings. Off-spinner Dane Piedt also made his mark with eight wickets in the second Test. South Africa played a warm-up match against the West Indies Championship XI in Tarouba, Trinidad, which ended in a draw but allowed players essential match practice.

Key Players for South Africa

David Bedingham: His consistent performances are crucial to South Africa’s batting strength.

 

Dane Piedt: His knack for taking crucial wickets makes him a key figure in the bowling attack.

 

Predicted XI:

-Aiden Markram

– Tony de Zorzi

– Tristan Stubbs

– Temba Bavuma (C)

– David Bedingham

– Kyle Verreynne (WK)

– Wiaan Mulder

– Keshav Maharaj

– Dane Piedt

– Kagiso Rabada

– Lungi Ngidi

Head-to-Head Records

– Matches Played: 32

– West Indies Wins: 3

– South Africa Wins: 22

– Draws: 7

Match Details

Date: Wednesday-Sunday, August 7-11

 

Time: 7:30 PM IST

 

Venue: Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad

Summary

The West Indies and South Africa share a storied cricketing rivalry, and this first Test is set to be an enthralling encounter. The West Indies, fortified by home advantage and a drive to bounce back from recent setbacks, will be keen to challenge a South African side eager to extend their winning legacy.

 

Cricket fans can look forward to a captivating battle as both teams aim to deliver their best performances. Will the West Indies find their footing, or will South Africa continue their impressive streak? As the match unfolds, one thing is clear: viewers are in for an exciting cricketing spectacle.

 

India vs. Sri Lanka (3rd ODI): A Clash of Titans ​

India's tour of Sri Lanka has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. It was a thrilling first ODI as both teams finished on 230 runs in a thrilling tie. With the series level, the third ODI promises to be even more thrilling.

India vs. Sri Lanka (3rd ODI): A Clash of Titans

India's tour of Sri Lanka has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. It was a thrilling first ODI as both teams finished on 230 runs in a thrilling tie. With the series level, the third ODI promises to be even more thrilling.

 Date: August 7, 2024
 Time: 02:30 PM IST
 Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

The Series So Far: Drama, Ties, and Nail-Biting Moments

The India tour of Sri Lanka has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. The first ODI left fans on the edge of their seats as it ended in a dramatic tie—both teams locked at 230 runs. Now, with the series level, the third ODI promises even more excitement.

Recent Heroics: Who’s Shining?

  1. Jeffrey Vandersay (Sri Lanka):
  • In the second ODI, Vandersay spun a web around the Indian batsmen, claiming a sensational 6 wickets for 33 runs. His variations and control were mesmerizing, earning him the well-deserved Player of the Match title.
  • India’s batsmen struggled to decode his spin, and they’ll need a better game plan this time.
  1. Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka):
  • Asalanka’s all-round brilliance in the first ODI was pivotal. Not only did he pick up crucial wickets—including two in consecutive balls—but he also contributed with the bat.
  • His calm under pressure sealed the tie, leaving fans in awe.
  1. Rohit Sharma (India):
  • The Hitman is hungry for runs. After a quiet outing in the second ODI, he’ll be itching to fire up the scoreboard.
  • Can he anchor the innings and set the stage for India’s resurgence?
  1. Virat Kohli (India):
  • The run-machine himself! Kohli’s consistency is legendary. Expect him to lead from the front.
  • His battle against Sri Lanka’s spinners will be a highlight.

Pitch Report: Spinners’ Paradise

The R. Premadasa Stadium pitch favors spinners. As the match progresses, expect the ball to grip and turn. Batting first could be advantageous, but both teams must adapt to the conditions swiftly.

Prediction: Thrills, Chills, and Nail-Biters

This encounter promises another closely contested battle. Will India level the series, or will Sri Lanka clinch it at home? Buckle up, cricket fans—it’s going to be a wild ride!

Fantasy XI:

 

  • Kusal Mendis (SL)
  • Rohit Sharma (IND)
  • Virat Kohli (IND)
  • Charith Asalanka (SL)
  • Axar Patel (IND)
  • Washington Sundar (IND)
  • Kusal Mendis (SL)
  • Dhananjaya de Silva (SL)
  • Akila Dananjaya (SL)
  • Kuldeep Yadav (IND)
  • Jeffrey Vandersay (SL)

Join the Conversation:

For more insights, analysis, and banter, follow All Cric on Facebook and Instagram. Share your predictions and fantasy picks in the comments below! Let’s celebrate the global cricket community together.

Feel free to share this revamped preview with your fellow cricket enthusiasts! Is there anything else cricket-related you’d like to discuss? 😊🏏

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How to write Fantasy Cricket Tips ?

How to Access Fantasy Tips

How to write fantasy Cricket Tips ?

How to Access Fantasy Tips

Writing fantasy cricket tips involves analyzing player statistics, team form, pitch conditions, and other relevant factors to help players make informed decisions for their fantasy teams. Here’s a guide on how to write effective fantasy cricket tips.

Know Your Audience

 – Understand the level of experience of your audience (beginners vs. advanced players).

 

 – Tailor your tips to be informative, engaging, and easy to understand.

Research Team and Player Performance

Current Form: Analyze players’ recent performances in domestic and international matches.

 

Head-to-Head Statistics: Check how players have performed against specific opponents.

 

Injury Updates: Keep track of player injuries and fitness levels before each match.

 

Playing XI: Predict the playing XI based on team announcements and practice reports.

 

Analyze Pitch and Weather Conditions

 – Pitch Report: Describe how the pitch behaves (bouncy, spin-friendly, etc.) and how it impacts batting/bowling.

 

 – Weather Conditions: Consider weather forecasts that could affect the game (e.g., rain, humidity).

Team Composition

  – Balance Your Team: Offer tips on how to mix star players with emerging talents and all-rounders.

 

  – Budget Management: Advise on how to use the available budget wisely to create a competitive team.

Key Players and Differential Picks

  – Star Players: Highlight must-have players based on recent form and match conditions.

 

  – Differential Picks: Suggest lesser-known players who might perform well for a lower cost, giving an edge to fantasy teams.

 

Captain and Vice-Captain Choices

– Make recommendations on who to choose as captain (2x points) and vice-captain (1.5x points) based on their potential performance.

 

Analysis and Predictions

  – Provide match predictions based on your research and analysis.

 

  – Discuss potential match outcomes and how different players might impact the game.

FAQs & Community Engagement

  – Answer frequently asked questions about fantasy cricket rules, strategies, and tips.

 

  – Encourage followers to ask questions or share their opinions.

Regular Updates

– Keep your tips updated with the latest information leading up to the match start time, including late injury news and playing XI changes.

 

Use Clear and Engaging Language

 – Keep your language simple, concise, and engaging to maintain interest and encourage understanding.

 

 – Use bullet points or lists for clarity.

Example of Fantasy Cricket Tips:

Match Preview:

– Today’s match features Team A vs. Team B in the T20 league. Conditions are expected to be clear with a flat pitch offering good batting support.

 

Key Players:

– Captain Choice: Player X (Team A) – In exceptional form, scoring consistently over the last five matches.

– Vice-Captain Pick: Player Y (Team B) – Has a good record against Team A’s bowling attack.

 

Differential Pick:

– Player Z (Team A) – A solid lower-order batsman who can score runs quickly and has had a good season so far.

 

Injury Update:

– Team B will miss key bowler Player W due to injury, which might impact their bowling strategy.

 

Final Thoughts:

– Utilize available funds carefully, and include a mix of star and emerging players for a balanced team. Good luck!

Join the Excitement!

By following these steps, you can create comprehensive and valuable fantasy cricket tips that can assist other players in making informed decisions.

 

Happy Playing and Good Luck!

India Seals Thrilling T20I Series Against Sri Lanka

**India Seals Thrilling T20I Series Against Sri Lanka Under Suryakumar Yadav’s Leadership**

India Seals Thrilling T20I Series Against Sri Lanka

**India Seals Thrilling T20I Series Against Sri Lanka Under Suryakumar Yadav’s Leadership**

You could feel the tension in the air as the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team squared off against Sri Lanka, captained by Charith Asalanka, in the final T20I of the India tour of Sri Lanka 2024. The match took place on July 30 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, and though India had already secured the series with two wins, the excitement was an instance.

First T20I: A Commanding Performance

India’s dominance was evident right from the first match. They posted an imposing total of 213/7, thanks to a stellar batting display led by Suryakumar Yadav himself. The bowlers, despite a shaky start, rallied together to restrict Sri Lanka to 170, sealing a 43-run victory. It was a comprehensive win that set the tone for the series.

Second T20I: Overcoming Challenges

The second T20I saw the Indian bowlers initially struggle to find breakthroughs. However, they bounced back, with Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel, and Hardik Pandya each taking two wickets, while Ravi Bishnoi grabbed three. Rain interrupted the match during the second innings, leading to a revised target of 78 for India, which they chased down comfortably with nine balls to spare .

Third T20I: A Nail-biting Finish

The final match of the series was nothing short of a thriller. Invited to bat first, India struggled, managing only 137 runs. Defending this modest total seemed like an uphill task, but the team showed incredible resilience. In a dramatic turn of events, the match went into a Super Over, thanks to clutch performances in the last two overs by Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav. India chased down the Super Over target of three runs on the first ball, clinching a memorable win.

Suryakumar Yadav’s Leadership

 

At the post-match presentation, Suryakumar Yadav, who was named Player of the Series, humbly denied taking credit for the win. Instead, he highlighted the collective effort of the team, especially the batters who showed great character when the team was struggling at 30/4. Suryakumar emphasized the importance of playing with heart and determination, acknowledging that 140 was a par score on that challenging track.

 

He praised his players’ skill, confidence, and positivity, making his role easier.

Suryakumar expressed his belief in being a leader rather than just a captain, fostering a supportive and selfless team environment. He shared how players were willing to rest for the sake of the team’s strategy, showcasing their commitment and making his job significantly less stressful.

Looking Ahead

With the T20I series wrapped up, the focus now shifts to the upcoming three-match ODI series between India and Sri Lanka, set to take place on August 2, 4, and 7 in Colombo. The thrilling T20I series has undoubtedly set high expectations for more exciting cricketing action.

 

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Sri Lanka Wins Maiden Women’s Asia Cup Title with Win Over India

Sri Lanka Clinch Maiden Women's Asia Cup Title with Comprehensive Win Over India

Sri Lanka Wins Maiden Women's Asia Cup Title with Win Over India

Sri Lanka Clinch Maiden Women's Asia Cup Title with Comprehensive Win Over India

In a historic turn of events, Sri Lanka claimed their first-ever Women’s Asia Cup title with a resounding victory over India, delighting their home fans with an exceptional run chase. The triumph not only marked a monumental achievement for the Sri Lankan team but also highlighted their remarkable progress in women’s cricket.

A Glorious Victory

On a bright Sunday, Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team scripted history by securing their maiden Women’s Asia Cup title, delivering a memorable performance that will be cherished for years to come. This victory came after India had dominated the tournament with eight previous titles out of nine final appearances, making Sri Lanka’s win even more significant.

The Stars of the Show

The final match saw stellar performances from Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama, whose contributions were pivotal in Sri Lanka’s triumph. Athapaththu, the experienced skipper, scored a vital 61 runs, setting the stage for her team. Meanwhile, Samarawickrama played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten at 69, guiding Sri Lanka to victory with poise and determination.

 

The Match Unfolds

India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, won the toss and elected to bat first. The Indian innings started on a positive note, with contributions from Smriti Mandhana, who scored a brisk 60 off 47 balls. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers made crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs, dismissing key Indian batters like Shafali Verma (16), Uma Chetry (9), and Harmanpreet Kaur (11).

 

Despite the setbacks, India’s middle order steadied the ship, with Jemimah Rodrigues adding 29 runs and Richa Ghosh playing a cameo of 30 off 14 balls, propelling India to a competitive total of 165/6 in their allotted 20 overs.

The Chase Begins

Sri Lanka’s chase got off to a rocky start, losing Vishmi Gunaratne early for just 1 run. However, Chamari Athapaththu’s experience and composure came to the fore as she anchored the innings, receiving solid support from Harshitha Samarawickrama. The pair navigated the initial overs cautiously, scoring 28 runs in the first five overs before launching a counter-attack.

 

A crucial over saw Sri Lanka plunder 16 runs, shifting the momentum in their favor. Athapaththu and Samarawickrama continued to build the innings, maintaining a steady run rate. Even after Athapaththu’s dismissal in the 12th over, Sri Lanka remained on course, thanks to Samarawickrama’s unwavering presence at the crease.

 

The Final Flourish

Samarawickrama found an able partner in Kavisha Dilhari, who played a quickfire knock of 30 off 16 balls. The duo ensured that there were no further hiccups as they steered Sri Lanka to victory, reaching the target in the 19th over. Samarawickrama’s unbeaten 69 earned her the Player of the Match award, while Athapaththu was rightfully named the Player of the Tournament for her outstanding all-round performance, scoring 304 runs and taking three wickets throughout the event.

 

 

Year

Format

Winner

2004

ODI

India

2005-06

ODI

India

2006

ODI

India

2008

ODI

India

2012

T20I

India

2016

T20I

India

2018

T20I

Bangladesh

2022

T20I

India

2024

T20I

Sri Lanka

A New Chapter in Sri Lankan Women's Cricket

This victory is not just a milestone for the team but a testament to their hard work, resilience, and growth over the years. Earlier this year, Sri Lanka also won the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, securing their place in the Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh. Additionally, they achieved a commendable 2-1 series win over South Africa away from home, showcasing their rising prowess in international cricket.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka’s maiden Women’s Asia Cup title is a moment of immense pride and joy for the nation. The team’s journey, filled with perseverance and determination, has finally borne fruit, and their victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers across the country. As they bask in the glory of their historic win, Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team has undoubtedly etched their names in the books of cricketing history, promising an exciting future ahead.