Why was the Women’s World Cup Match Between Sri Lanka and New Zealand Abandoned?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, the Women’s World Cup 2025 match between Sri Lanka and New Zealand faced a complete washout due to heavy rain in Colombo. As both teams shared points, the match left fans eagerly anticipating the next fixture. Discover the exciting highlights of the day and how the players performed before the rain set in.
Key Takeaways
- Rain disrupted the Women’s World Cup match, leading to an abandonment.
- Both teams shared a point due to the washout.
- Sri Lanka scored 258 runs in their innings.
- Chamari Athapaththu scored a half-century for Sri Lanka.
- Nilakshika de Silva provided an explosive finish with a rapid fifty.
Colombo, Oct 14 (NationPress) Once again, rain disrupted the action in Colombo as the fixture for the Women’s World Cup 2025 between Sri Lanka and New Zealand was cancelled without any play in the second innings, resulting in both teams sharing a point at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
This incident marks the second game in Colombo to be abandoned during the tournament, with Sri Lanka featuring in both.
As players geared up for their chase, ominous clouds gathered over the stadium, and just moments before New Zealand’s batting was set to begin, a torrential downpour struck. This heavy rain interrupted the match for over two hours. Ground staff worked diligently to prepare the pitch, and a revised target of 30 overs was established, with play expected to resume at 9:15 PM IST.
However, just when the situation seemed to improve, the rain returned with greater intensity, leaving the officials with no choice but to terminate the match. The washout meant both teams departed with one point each.
Earlier, Sri Lanka chose to bat first after winning the toss, with captain Chamari Athapaththu shining with a splendid half-century. The left-handed batswoman showcased her skill, punishing any loose deliveries, while her opening partner, Vishmi Gunaratne, provided reliable support. The New Zealand bowlers struggled to make early breakthroughs, as the hosts reached 52/0 at the end of the powerplay.
Gunaratne benefitted from a couple of lucky moments on scores of 26 and 31, capitalizing on New Zealand’s fielding errors. The duo built a strong 101-run opening partnership before New Zealand captain Sophie Devine finally dismissed Athapaththu for 53 in the 24th over. Gunaratne soon followed, contributing a careful 42 off 83 balls, as the White Ferns fought back into the match.
The middle order attempted to stabilize the innings through Harshitha Samarawickrama and Hasini Perera, who combined for 58 runs for the fourth wicket. However, after Harshitha was caught behind for 26, New Zealand regained control, as Perera fell for 44 and Kavisha Dilhari managed just 4 runs.
Just when it appeared the innings was losing momentum, Nilakshika de Silva delivered a breathtaking performance. Coming in at No. 6, she made a stunning impact, racing to a 50 off just 26 balls - the fastest in this year’s World Cup - and finishing with 55 off 28 balls, striking the ball cleanly. Her explosive finish propelled Sri Lanka to a formidable total of 258/6, with 80 runs scored in the final 10 overs.
For New Zealand, captain Sophie Devine was a standout with bowling figures of 3-54 from her nine overs. Bree Illing (2-39) and Rosemary Mair (1-29) contributed valuable support, but fielding errors and ineffective bowling with the new ball proved costly for the visitors.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the unpredictable nature of sports, especially in a tournament as significant as the Women’s World Cup. While the weather disrupted this match, the resilience shown by players and staff highlights the passion for the game. We stand with the teams as they look forward to their next challenges.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the match abandoned?
The match was abandoned due to heavy rain, which made the pitch unplayable.
What was Sri Lanka's score before the match was called off?
Sri Lanka scored 258 runs for the loss of 6 wickets before the rain halted play.
How many matches have been abandoned in Colombo during the tournament?
This was the second match abandoned in Colombo during the tournament.
Who was the standout player for Sri Lanka?
Chamari Athapaththu was the standout player for Sri Lanka, scoring a half-century.
What impact does rain have on tournament scheduling?
Rain can significantly disrupt the tournament schedule, affecting teams' momentum and strategies.
