Sri Lanka began their Women’s Asia Cup 2026 campaign in ruthless fashion as the defending champions thumped UAE by nine wickets at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
After bundling out the home side for just 79 runs, Sri Lanka chased down the target with nine wickets and 12.1 overs to spare, handing themselves a huge net run rate (NRR) boost along with two crucial points. It also turned out to be Sri Lanka’s biggest-ever WT20I win in terms of balls remaining.
Dismal batting from UAE
After being asked to bat first, the home side completely faltered with their batting approach. Captain Esha Oza top-scored with 18 off 24 while a few others reached double figures. However, UAE were eventually bundled out for just 79 in 19.5 overs.
Impressive T20I debut for Chethana Vimukthi as SL pacers shine
Chethana Vimukthi, playing her first T20I, left an immediate mark with an impressive spell of 3/16 in four overs. She was well supported by her pace bowling partner Mithali Ayodha, who also picked up three wickets for 14 runs in 3.5 overs.
On a slowish Dubai track, where spinners generally tend to find assistance, Sri Lanka’s pace duo stood out, combining for six wickets while conceding only 30 runs in 7.5 overs. Vimukthi was also named the Player of the Match.
Attacking opening pair and huge NRR boost
Both Sri Lanka openers – Imesha Dulani and skipper Chamari Athapaththu – adopted an ultra-aggressive approach, adding 57 runs in just 5.5 overs.
An unfortunate run-out at the non-striker’s end saw Dulani dismissed for 25 off 18, but Athapaththu remained unbeaten on 48 off 25, striking at 192. The defending champions had announced their arrival in style.
With this huge win, Sri Lanka now have an NRR of +6.263.
Next Games
Sri Lanka – vs Indonesia, Dubai, September 2
UAE – vs Indonesia, Dubai, September 4
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