In the opening T20I match between New Zealand Women and Sri Lanka Women at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand’s batting lineup struggled against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. After electing to bat first, New Zealand found themselves at a precarious 89 for 7 after 16 overs.
The innings began with the dismissal of captain Suzie Bates, who scored a quick 21 off 14 balls before being caught by Manudi Nanayakkara off the bowling of Malki Madara. Georgia Plimmer followed soon after, contributing just 2 runs. Debutant Emma McLeod showed resilience, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 38 off 34 deliveries. However, wickets tumbled around her, with Brooke Halliday (4), fellow debutant Izzy Sharp (0), and Maddy Green (5) all departing cheaply. Jess Kerr added 10 runs before being stumped by wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewani off the bowling of Inoshi Fernando. At the 16-over mark, Polly Inglis was at the crease with McLeod, yet to score.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings. Chamari Athapaththu led by example, delivering three economical overs and claiming the crucial wicket of Polly Inglis, who was stumped by Sanjeewani. Kavisha Dilhari was instrumental in the middle overs, taking 2 wickets for just 11 runs in her 3-over spell. Inoshi Fernando also contributed significantly, capturing 2 wickets for 23 runs. Malki Madara, making her T20I debut, impressed with figures of 1 for 10 in her two overs.
The mandatory powerplay (overs 1-6) saw New Zealand reaching 42 for 2, but a flurry of wickets thereafter hindered their progress. At the drinks break, they were struggling at 60 for 5 after 9.1 overs. With four overs remaining and only three wickets in hand, New Zealand faced an uphill task to set a competitive total.
This match also marked T20I debuts for New Zealand’s Emma McLeod and Izzy Sharp, as well as Sri Lanka’s Malki Madara.
As the innings progresses, New Zealand will aim to utilize the remaining overs effectively, while Sri Lanka will look to wrap up the innings swiftly and chase a modest target.
