Sri Lanka Women’s A, led by Sathya Sandeepani, recorded back-to-back wins and will look to complete a clean sweep when they meet New Zealand Women’s A in the third and final T20 match at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium today.
Sri Lanka won the opening game by three wickets with three balls to spare before recording a comfortable 56-run victory in the second match on Saturday. Their confidence is high after two impressive wins over the experienced New Zealand Women’s A side led by Jess Watkin.
Twenty-year-old opener Vishmi Gunaratne was the star of the second T20, scoring an unbeaten 57 off 49 balls with four fours and two sixes to earn the Player of the Match award. She remains the only half-centurion of the series so far.
Vishmi returned for this series after recovering from a wrist injury, and selectors were keen to assess her progress ahead of future international assignments, including the T20 World Cup. Her return to form is a major boost for the home side.
Sri Lanka’s top order has also impressed during the series, with Sanjana Kavindi and Vimoksha Balasuriya contributing valuable runs and putting the New Zealand bowlers under pressure. Wicketkeeper Sumudu Nisansala has also caught the eye with her performances in the middle order in addition to her work behind the stumps.
Sri Lanka’s spin attack has played a key role in the series. Off-spinner Dewmi Vihanga, who claimed 3 for 19 in the previous game, and leg-spinner Chamudi Praboda have consistently troubled the New Zealand batters with disciplined spells.
Having already secured the series 2-0, the Sri Lankan team management may consider a few changes to give opportunities to other players. However, the final decision will be made after assessing the pitch conditions today. The team is also eager to complete a 3-0 clean sweep and continue the winning momentum under head coach Sampath Perera.
New Zealand Women’s A had earlier won the ODI series 1-0, but their batters have struggled to find rhythm in the T20 series. Sri Lanka’s bowlers have dominated with accurate and tidy spells to take an unassailable lead. Skipper Sathya Sandeepani praised the team’s spirit and performances in the two victories. She was particularly pleased with Vishmi Gunaratne’s batting and the contribution of the spinners in the 56-run victory.
Meanwhile, New Zealand captain Jess Watkin expressed disappointment after the team’s strong ODI series performance failed to carry into the T20 format. Experienced batters Kate Anderson, Bella James, Bella Armstrong and JA Watkins have failed to produce substantial scores so far, though the visitors will be determined to avoid a series whitewash in today’s final match.
Sri Lanka’s spinners have enjoyed an outstanding series, and their contribution will once again be crucial as the home side aims for a third successive win.
(Courtesy Ceylon Daily News)