The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 encountered its second rain-marred finish in Colombo, as the contest between Sri Lanka Women and New Zealand Women at the R. Premadasa Stadium ended in a no result.
Sri Lanka, batting first, posted a competitive 258/6 in 50 overs, led by captain Chamari Athapaththu’s fluent half-century and a late flourish from Nilakshi de Silva. However, persistent evening showers arrived before New Zealand could begin their chase, washing out what promised to be an intriguing second innings and forcing both teams to share points.
Chamari Athapaththu – 53 (72)
Skipper Chamari Athapaththu led from the front with a composed 53 off 72 deliveries, anchoring the Sri Lankan innings through the early overs. After a steady start alongside Vishmi Gunaratne, Athapaththu shifted gears with her trademark stroke play, finding gaps with precision and punishing loose deliveries. Her knock, laced with seven boundaries, came at a crucial time when Sri Lanka needed stability at the top. She was eventually dismissed after building the platform for a strong total, underlining once again her reliability as Sri Lanka’s batting pillar.
Nilakshika Silva – 55* (28)
Nilakshika Silva provided the late fireworks that propelled Sri Lanka past the 250-mark with a sensational 55 not out off just 28 balls. Coming in during the death overs, she unleashed an array of attacking strokes — driving, lofting, and pulling with authority — to accelerate the scoring rate dramatically. Her strike rate of 196.4 reflected her intent and control under pressure. Nilakshi’s explosive cameo transformed a steady innings into a formidable total, leaving New Zealand with a challenging target before rain had the final say.
Sophie Devine – 9–1–54–3
For New Zealand, captain Sophie Devine stood out with the ball, claiming 3 for 54 in her 9 overs. Though slightly expensive, Devine’s knack for taking key wickets proved invaluable — dismissing Chamari Athapaththu, Kavisha Dilhari, and Piumi Wathsala at crucial intervals to stem Sri Lanka’s momentum. Her sharp changes of pace and deceptive lengths tested the batters throughout the innings. Devine’s leadership and wicket-taking spells ensured New Zealand stayed competitive before rain intervened, leaving the match without a decisive outcome.
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