How Did Skipper Athapaththu and Nilakshika Lead Sri Lanka to 258/6 Against NZ?
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Synopsis
Sri Lanka's cricket team showcased an impressive performance against New Zealand, with standout contributions from skipper Athapaththu and the record-breaking Nilakshika de Silva. Their combined efforts propelled the team to a total of 258/6, setting the stage for an exciting clash in the Women's ODI Cricket World Cup 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Nilakshika de Silva scored the tournament's fastest fifty in just 26 balls.
- Skipper Chamari Athapaththu provided crucial support with a solid 53 runs.
- The opening partnership of 101 runs set the tone for Sri Lanka's innings.
- Sri Lanka managed to score 80 runs in the final 10 overs, showcasing their aggressive batting.
- New Zealand struggled in the field, missing critical catches that could have changed the game.
Colombo, Oct 14 (NationPress) An explosive half-century from Nilakshika de Silva, who recorded the fastest fifty of the Women’s ODI Cricket World Cup 2025, propelled Sri Lanka to a formidable score of 258/6 against New Zealand during their World Cup encounter at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Tuesday.
Nilakshika's remarkable innings - an unbeaten 55 off merely 28 balls - featured a record-setting fifty off just 26 balls, placing her atop the tournament’s fastest fifties leaderboard.
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka chose to bat first and started strongly with captain Chamari Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunaratne, who formed a solid opening partnership of 101 runs. Athapaththu was assertive at the crease, capitalizing on loose deliveries, while Gunaratne took her time to find her rhythm. The powerplay concluded with Sri Lanka at 52/0, as New Zealand's opening bowlers failed to find early breakthroughs.
Gunaratne was granted two lifelines - dropped on scores of 26 and 31 - due to New Zealand's fielding lapses. Athapaththu, on the other hand, maintained her dominance, reaching a composed fifty before being dismissed by Sophie Devine for 53 in the 24th over, breaking their century partnership.
Gunaratne eventually fell for a well-played 83 off 42 balls. Hasini Perera (44) and Harshitha Samarawickrama (26) then contributed a steady 58-run partnership for the fourth wicket, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking.
However, after Harshitha was dismissed, New Zealand made a comeback by quickly taking out Kavisha Dilhari (4) and Perera, regaining control.
Just as it appeared that New Zealand might limit the hosts, Nilakshika de Silva turned the tide with a brilliant counterattack. Coming in at No. 6, she consistently found the boundary and played aggressively from the outset. Her record-breaking fifty off 26 balls helped Sri Lanka score 80 runs in the last 10 overs, securing a strong finish.
For New Zealand, skipper Sophie Devine led the bowling with figures of 3-54 in nine overs, while Bree Illing (2-39) and Rosemary Mair (1-29) also made contributions. None of the spinners managed to secure a wicket.
Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 258/6 in 50 overs (Nilakshika de Silva 55 not out, Chamari Athapaththu 53; Sophie Devine 3-54, Bree Illing 2-39) against New Zealand.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the remarkable achievements of our national team in the Women's ODI Cricket World Cup 2025. The performances of Athapaththu and Nilakshika de Silva exemplify the talent and determination within Sri Lankan cricket. It is crucial to support our players as they strive for excellence on the global stage.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Nilakshika de Silva's innings?
Nilakshika's innings is significant as it marks the fastest fifty in the Women's ODI Cricket World Cup 2025, showcasing her explosive batting skills and contributing to Sri Lanka's competitive total.
How did the opening partnership impact the match?
The opening partnership of Athapaththu and Gunaratne, which added 101 runs, set a solid foundation for Sri Lanka, allowing the team to build momentum and score a challenging total against New Zealand.
Who were the standout bowlers for New Zealand?
Sophie Devine led the bowling attack for New Zealand with impressive figures of 3-54, while Bree Illing and Rosemary Mair also contributed with key wickets.
