By Deepak Sharma (Indian Correspondent)
E-mail: spacewalker008@gmail.com
Sharjah, UAE (06-10-2024): Australia began their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title defense in style, securing a comfortable six-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Sharjah. A composed knock from Beth Mooney, who remained unbeaten on 43, helped Australia chase down the target of 94 with 5.4 overs to spare.
Sri Lanka, electing to bat first, struggled throughout their innings and could only post 93/7 in 20 overs. Nilakshika Silva top-scored with 29* but found little support as Australia’s bowlers kept things tight. Megan Schutt (3/12) and Sophie Molineux (2/20) led the charge, with Schutt equaling the record for most T20 World Cup wickets at 43.
Sri Lanka got off to a slow start, failing to score for the first 10 deliveries before losing Vishmi Gunarathne for a duck. Captain Chamari Athapaththu followed soon after, dismissed for 3, as Ashleigh Gardner struck early with a successful LBW review. The pressure continued as Sri Lanka reached just 23/2 by the end of the powerplay.
Samarawickrama added 23, but no other batter could provide momentum, as Silva’s cautious 29* from 40 balls helped push Sri Lanka to 93/7 by the end of their innings.
In reply, Australia faced an early setback when Captain Alyssa Healy was bowled by Udeshika Prabodhani in the opening over. Despite Georgia Wareham’s promotion to the top order failing with a run-out for 6, Beth Mooney anchored the innings with a calm and steady approach. Gardner (28) provided solid support, adding 43 for the third wicket.
After Gardner’s departure, Mooney carried on, guiding Australia to 94/4 in 14.2 overs, ensuring their World Cup campaign got off to a winning start with their 12th consecutive victory in the tournament.
Scores in Brief:
Sri Lanka: 93/7 in 20 overs (Nilakshika Silva 29*; Megan Schutt 3/12, Sophie Molineux 2/20)
Australia: 94/4 in 14.2 overs (Beth Mooney 43*, Ellyse Perry 17; Sugandika Kumari 1/16, Udeshika Prabodani 1/19)
Result: Australia won by six wickets.
