Sri Lanka Salvage Pride with Dominant 8-Wicket Win in Final ODI Against Ireland
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| Sri Lanka Women won by 8 wkts // Getty Images |
Sri Lanka ended their challenging tour of Ireland on a high note with a commanding 8-wicket victory in the third and final ODI at Stormont. After losing the series, this win provided some consolation for the visitors.
Winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bowl first and their bowlers delivered brilliantly. Achini Kulasuriya (3/35) and Inoshi Fernando (1/7 in 10 overs) stifled the Irish batters, while skipper Chamari Athapaththu (3/15) and Sachini Nisansala (2/35) played crucial roles in restricting Ireland to a mere 122 in 46.3 overs.
In response, Athapaththu led from the front with a quickfire 48 off 49 balls, supported by Harshitha Samarawickrama's composed 48* off 56. The duo’s 62-run stand for the second wicket ensured a smooth chase, with Sri Lanka reaching the target in just 25.2 overs.
Despite losing the series 2-1, Sri Lanka’s victory will be a morale boost, while Ireland celebrated their historic first ODI series win against Sri Lanka, having also tied the preceding T20I series.
