The sixth fixture of the Women’s ODI Tri-Series promises another captivating clash, as Sri Lanka Women lock horns with South Africa Women at Colombo’s iconic R. Premadasa Stadium. While the finalists—India and hosts Sri Lanka—have already been confirmed, this encounter holds immense value for South Africa, who are yet to register a win in the tournament and will be playing for pride and redemption.
In their previous outing, Sri Lanka pulled off a stunning chase of India’s 276-run target, sealing victory by 3 wickets. Standout performances from Sugandika Kumari (3/44) and Chamari Athapaththu (3/43) with the ball laid the foundation, while Nilakshi de Silva’s explosive 56 off just 33 balls guided the chase home. On the other hand, South Africa faced a spirited India and, despite valiant knocks from Annerie Dercksen (81 off 80) and Chloe Tryon (67 off 43), fell short by 23 runs in their pursuit of 338.
Squads:
Sri Lanka Women
Chamari Athapaththu (C), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Nilakshika Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Anushka Sanjeewani (WK), Manudi Nanayakkara, Hasini Perera, Achini Kulasuriya, Piumi Badalge, Dewmi Vihanga, Hansima Karunaratne, Malki Madara, Inoshi Priyadarshini, Sugandika Kumari, Rashmika Sewwandi, Inoka Ranaweera
South Africa Women
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Nondumiso Shangase, Miane Smit, Chloe Tryon
Players to watch out:
Sugandika Kumari
The experienced 33-year-old left-arm orthodox spinner has featured in 41 ODIs for Sri Lanka, collecting 36 wickets with best figures of 4/39. Making her first appearance in the fourth match of the series, she made an immediate impact with 3/44 against India, dismissing key batters Harmanpreet Kaur, Richa Ghosh, and Sneh Rana.
Nilakshi de Silva
A seasoned 35-year-old middle-order batter with 46 ODIs under her belt, she has amassed 879 runs with the highest score of 63. After modest outings in her first two games, she bounced back with a match-winning 56 off 33 deliveries against India, showcasing her explosive finishing prowess.
Annerie Dercksen
The 24-year-old South African all-rounder has been a bright spot in their campaign. With 242 runs in 7 ODIs at an impressive average of 40.33, she has posted scores of 30, 61*, and 81 in this series. Additionally, she has 8 wickets to her name, with best figures of 3/16.
Nonkululeko Mlaba
A key asset in South Africa’s bowling attack, the 24-year-old spinner has claimed 29 wickets in 32 ODIs, with the best of 3/39. She has maintained consistency in the tri-series, returning figures of 2/55, 2/44, and 2/71 in her outings.
Pitch:
The R. Premadasa Stadium is a haven for batters, with an average first-innings score hovering around 254. However, as the match progresses—especially under lights—spinners begin to dominate the proceedings. The team winning the toss is likely to bowl first to utilize the early moisture and set up a more calculated chase.
Weather:
The weather in Colombo might throw a curveball, with a 40% chance of rain and potential thunderstorms expected during the match hours. The temperature is likely to stay around 32°C, accompanied by high humidity levels (approximately 74%), making fitness and endurance key factors on the field.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Anushka Sanjeewani, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Tazmin Brits, Chamari Athapaththu, Sune Luus, Kavisha Dilhari, Nadine de Klerk, Chloe Tryon, Annerie Dercksen, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Sugandika Kumari
Match details:
Date – May 9, 2025
Time – 10:00 AM IST
Venue – R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Broadcast – Live telecast in India on FanCode; international audiences can catch the action on the Sri Lanka Cricket YouTube channel.
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