The first Asian Games Women’s Cricket Competition semi-final brings together two subcontinent rivals who know each other’s games inside out. Sri Lanka enter this contest carrying serious tactical discipline, relying heavily on their top-order setup and a disciplined spin group designed to choke scoring rates in the middle overs. Pakistan, on the other hand, bring a raw, unpredictable intensity that can turn high-stakes knockout games on their head. While Sri Lanka built their path here through calm, methodical executions, Pakistan’s strength lies in their bowling variety and aggressive mindset, setting up a sharp clash of contrasting philosophies.
Squads:
Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team
Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Muneeba Ali (WK), Nashra Sundhu, Fatima Sana (C), Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, Gull Feroza (WK), Momina Riasat, Humna Bilal, Eyman Fatima, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tasmia Rubab, Eman Naseer
Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Team
Chamari Athapaththu (C), Anushka Sanjeewani (WK), Hasini Perera, Sugandika Kumari, Hansima Karunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Imesha Dulani, Kawya Kavindi, Kaushini Nuthyangana (WK), Sanjana Kavindi, Rashmika Sewwandi, Nimasha Meepage, Chamudi Praboda, Mithali Ayodhya
Players to watch out:
Chamari Athapaththu
Chamari led from the front with an absolute masterclass, smashing 63 off just 37 balls. She racked up 7 fours and 3 massive sixes to set the tone, operating at a blazing strike rate of 170.27. To wrap up a total all-round display, she also rolled her arm over for two tidy overs, picking up 2 wickets for just 3 runs.
Kavisha Dilhari
Kavisha played a brilliant supporting hand with the bat, remaining unbeaten on 44 off 27 deliveries with 6 crisp boundaries. She kept the runs flowing effortlessly without giving away her wicket. Later with the ball in hand, she choked the opposition’s scoring, grabbing 2 wickets for just 4 runs in her 3 overs while bowling a maiden.
Shawaal Zulfiqar
Shawaal provided an energetic spark at the crease, blasting a quickfire 25 off 14 balls. She set an aggressive pace during her brief stay, striking 3 fours and a six at a strike rate of 178.57. Her rapid knock gave the innings crucial early momentum when her team needed it most.
Fatima Sana
Fatima delivered a solid performance with the ball, picking up 2 wickets in her 3 overs. Giving away 22 runs, she kept things steady and delivered key breakthroughs for her side. Her effort with the ball helped keep the opposition line-up well within reach.
Pitch:
The surface at Korogi Sports Park provides steady, uniform bounce and fair movement early on for seamers. Batters can post solid totals once accustomed to the pace, though damp outfields and pitch wear later in the match can give spinners extra purchase and slow down scoring.
Weather:
The forecast for Aichi Prefectural Korogi Sports Park calls for cloudy weather, with temperatures peaking at 30°C and dropping to a low of 23°C. Winds will blow from the north at 9 mph alongside 75% humidity.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Chamari Athapaththu, Anushka Sanjeewani, Hasini Perera, Sugandika Kumari, Hansima Karunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Muneeba Ali, Nashra Sundhu, Fatima Sana
Match Details:
Date – September 20, 2026
Time – 5:30 AM IST
Venue – Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin
Broadcast – Sony Sports Network, Sony Liv
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