India Women vs Sri Lanka Women: Tri-Series Final Clash in Colombo
The stage is set for the India Women vs Sri Lanka Women final in the ongoing ODI tri-series in Colombo. With India in top form and Sri Lanka eyeing a historic win, Sunday’s final promises high-octane drama.
India Women hold the edge in Tri-Series Final
India Women enter the tri-series final as favourites. Their consistent batting, led by Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur, has helped them post totals above 300 in four of their last ten matches. Even their spinners, especially Sneh Rana, have created pressure in the middle overs.
Though Sri Lanka stunned India in the group stage, recent history favours India. Out of 33 completed ODIs, Sri Lanka have beaten India only three times. However, Sunday’s contest presents a fresh opportunity.
Can Sri Lanka Women upset India again?
Sri Lanka Women last reached an ODI final featuring three or more teams in 2009. That drought adds significance to this clash. Their hopes hinge on Chamari Athapaththu, who scored 195 in a record chase last year. However, her recent form has been patchy, averaging just 24.07 in the past 13 innings.
Encouragingly, players like Harshitha Samarawickrama and Kavisha Dilhari have stepped up recently. These performances give Sri Lanka depth beyond Athapaththu’s bat.
Death-overs execution may decide the India vs Sri Lanka Women final
Sri Lanka have dominated the middle overs, but their struggle in the death overs has cost them dearly. South Africa hammered 114 in the last 10 overs on Friday. Even in their win over India, 70 runs were leaked late.
In contrast, India possess finishers like Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma, capable of turning games around in the final overs. This area could prove decisive in the final.
Weather may play a role
Although heat has been a factor, Sunday’s forecast suggests mild relief with clouds and possible overnight rain. A fresh pitch is expected, creating ideal conditions for a high-scoring final. With free entry for fans, a lively crowd could further lift the atmosphere.
