In a stunning display of bowling prowess, Sri Lanka's captain Chamari Athapaththu made history during the Asia Cup by taking 7 wickets for just 5 runs against Indonesia. This remarkable achievement not only secured a decisive victory for Sri Lanka but also established a new record for the best bowling figures by a bowler from a Full Member nation in women's T20 internationals.
The match, held on a slow-paced wicket in Dubai, saw Sri Lanka defend a modest total of 125 runs. Athapaththu entered the bowling attack in the fourth over and quickly made her mark, claiming her first wicket with her fourth delivery. She continued to dismantle the Indonesian batting lineup, taking her second and third wickets shortly thereafter. Although her hat-trick was initially unfulfilled, she soon completed it by taking three wickets in consecutive deliveries during her fourth over, leading to Indonesia's collapse for a mere 49 runs.
Only two Indonesian players managed to reach double figures, with Rahmawati Pangestuti scoring 10 runs and Ni Made Putri Suwandewi remaining unbeaten on 12. The Sri Lankan bowlers, led by Athapaththu, exhibited exceptional control and skill, rendering the Indonesian batting order ineffective throughout the match.
Prior to Athapaththu's heroics, Sri Lanka found themselves struggling at 62 for 6, but a resilient innings from Nilakshika Silva, who scored 50 runs off 35 balls, helped the team recover to a total of 124 for 7. Indonesia's Ni Luh Dewi was the standout bowler for her side, finishing with figures of 3 wickets for 32 runs.
Athapaththu's 7-wicket haul surpasses the previous record held by Zimbabwe's Esther Mbofana, who had taken 6 wickets for 11 runs against Eswatini in 2021. This achievement highlights Athapaththu's exceptional talent and leadership, further solidifying her status as one of the leading figures in women's cricket.
This victory not only boosts Sri Lanka's standing in the Asia Cup but also serves as a reminder of the growing competitiveness in women's cricket, particularly among Full Member nations. Athapaththu's record-breaking performance is expected to inspire future generations of cricketers and elevate the profile of women's cricket on the international stage.
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