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SYLHET – Skipper Chamari Athapaththu led from the front with a blistering half-century as Sri Lanka Women clinicaly defeated Bangladesh Women by 7 wickets in the second ODI at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. The victory ensures the three-match series is level at 1-1, setting up a thrilling finale.

Disciplined Bowling Restricts Bangladesh

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Bangladesh struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. The hosts were eventually bowled out for 158 runs in 46.2 overs.

Sultana Khatun top-scored for the home side with a resilient 34 off 56 balls, while Shorna Akter contributed 31. However, regular strikes from the visitors prevented any significant partnerships. Sri Lanka’s spin duo of Inoshi Priyadharshani (3/28) and Sugandika कुमारी (3/30) were the pick of the bowlers, consistently troubling the Bangladeshi batters on a surface that offered some turn.

The Athapaththu Onslaught

In reply, Sri Lanka made a statement of intent from the opening over. Captain Chamari Athapaththu took the game away from the hosts with a dominant 72 off just 54 deliveries, an innings decorated with 9 boundaries and 2 towering sixes.

Athapaththu found a steady partner in Harshitha Samarawickrama, who played a composed knock of 44 to ensure there were no hiccups in the chase. The pair shared a vital 101-run partnership for the second wicket. Despite Nahida Akter’s effort to break the deadlock with two wickets, Sri Lanka reached the target comfortably, finishing at 159/3 in just 29.3 overs.

Series Decider Awaits

With the series now perfectly poised at 1-1, all eyes turn to the third and final ODI. Sri Lanka will look to carry this momentum forward to clinch the trophy, while Bangladesh will need to significantly improve their batting performance to defend their home turf.

Chamari Athapaththu was rightfully named Player of the Match for her match-winning captain's knock.

Match Summary:

• Bangladesh Women: 158 all out (46.2 overs) | Sultana Khatun 34, Shorna Akter 31; Inoshi Priyadharshani 3/28.

• Sri Lanka Women: 159/3 (29.3 overs) | Chamari Athapaththu 72, Harshitha Samarawickrama 44; Nahida Akter 2/35.

• Result: Sri Lanka Women won by 7 wickets.

• Series Status: Level at 1-1.