Sri Lanka dominates Women’s U19 Asia Cup 2024 opening match

Sri Lanka started their Women’s U19 Asia Cup 2024 campaign with a dominant 94-run victory over Malaysia.

Match Analysis

Skipper Manudi Nanayakkara’s stellar performance set the tone as Sri Lanka capitalized on their decision to bat first, showcasing complete control throughout the match.

Nanayakkara, who would later claim Player of the Match honours, put on a batting masterclass, smashing 74 off just 40 deliveries. Her explosive innings, decorated with 10 boundaries and two sixes, set the perfect platform for Sri Lanka's imposing total of 153/4. The captain found sterling support in Limansa Thilakaratne, who crafted a composed 41, as the pair dominated the Malaysian bowling attack.

The Malaysian reply never threatened to challenge the target, crumbling to 59/6 in their 20 overs. Hiruni Hansika's remarkable spell of 2/2 from three overs exemplified Sri Lanka's ruthless bowling performance. Malaysia's batting lineup struggled to build meaningful partnerships against a disciplined Sri Lankan attack.

Nanayakkara’s all-around leadership and match-winning performance marked her as the standout player in this opening fixture, setting a strong tone for Sri Lanka’s title ambitions in the tournament.

© Cricket World 2024