Pakistan Women opened their three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka with a commanding five-wicket victory in Hambantota on Thursday. The visitors successfully chased down a target of 211 with 42 balls to spare, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
Opting to bat first, the hosts were restricted to 210 for 9 in their 50 overs. Sri Lanka began with a promising 56-run opening partnership between Vishmi Gunaratne and captain Chamari Athapaththu. Gunaratne departed for 28 after being caught off the bowling of slow left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu. Athapaththu provided stability with a composed 46 off 67 balls, including six boundaries, before her innings ended at the hands of Sandhu. Despite middle-order contributions from Hasini Perera and Kavisha Dilhari, who each scored 35 runs, Pakistan's disciplined bowling attack kept the pressure on throughout the middle overs.
Nashra Sandhu finished with impressive figures of 3 for 42, while left-arm pacer Tasmia Rubab provided crucial support with 2 for 34. A late surge from Nilakshi de Silva, who remained unbeaten on 46 off 50 deliveries, helped the hosts cross the 200-run mark.
In response, Pakistan's chase was anchored by a dominant display from opener Gull Feroza. She struck 11 boundaries in a counter-attacking knock of 78 off 77 balls, ensuring Pakistan stayed well ahead of the required run rate. Sidra Amin provided steady support, contributing 57 off 94 balls. Although Sri Lanka managed to take wickets, including three for 22 in a late burst, the visitors remained composed. Kavisha Dilhari was the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers, claiming 2 for 37. Ayesha Zafar steered the team home with an unbeaten 27 off 31 deliveries, sealing the win in the 43rd over. Gull Feroza was named Player of the Match for her match-winning performance.
