Pakistan Women Begin Sri Lanka ODI Series with Comfortable Five-Wicket Victory
Pakistan Women made a winning start to their ODI series against Sri Lanka, securing a five-wicket victory in the opening match at Hambantota. An excellent all-round display, led by Nashra Sandhu with the ball and Gull Feroza and Sidra Amin with the bat, helped the visitors chase down 211 with seven overs to spare.
The result also marked Pakistan’s fifth consecutive ODI victory, strengthening their position in the ICC Women’s Championship standings.
Sandhu Leads Pakistan’s Bowling Effort
After opting to bat first, Sri Lanka got off to a positive start through Chamari Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunaratne, who added another fifty-run opening partnership for the hosts.
However, Pakistan’s spinners gradually took control of the game.
Left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu removed both Gunaratne and Athapaththu to finish with 3 for 42, while Rubab Khan chipped in with two wickets.
Although Nilakshika Silva top-scored with 46 and Kavisha Dilhari played a useful knock, Sri Lanka lost wickets regularly in the closing overs and finished with 210 for 9, a total that proved below par.
Gull Feroza Continues Outstanding Form
Pakistan’s chase was dominated by opener Gull Feroza, who continued her impressive run in ODI cricket.
She attacked from the outset during the powerplay and shared a 58-run opening partnership with Sadaf Shamas, putting Pakistan firmly in control.
Feroza later combined with Sidra Amin for a crucial 90-run stand for the second wicket before departing after a brilliant 78 off 77 balls, registering her fourth consecutive ODI half-century.
Sidra Amin Anchors the Chase
While Feroza provided the early momentum, Sidra Amin played the anchor’s role perfectly.
The experienced batter compiled a composed 57 from 94 deliveries, ensuring Pakistan remained on course throughout the chase.
By the time Amin was dismissed, Pakistan were within touching distance of victory before the middle order completed the job comfortably.
Pakistan Continue Winning Momentum
The victory extended Pakistan’s winning streak to five successive ODI matches, lifting them to second place in the ICC Women’s Championship standings.
With confidence growing and both the batting and bowling departments performing well, Pakistan will look to seal the series in the second ODI.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will need a stronger all-round performance if they are to level the series and keep the contest alive.
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