Thrilling clash expected in India vs Sri Lanka Tri-Nation final
Sri Lanka women and India women will face off in what promises to be an exciting ODI Tri-Series final today at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The match is scheduled to begin at 10:00am. The final marks the third meeting between these sides in the tournament, with each team having secured a victory against the other. India dominated the first encounter with a convincing 9-wicket win, but Sri Lanka bounced back impressively in their second meeting, clinching a thrilling 3-wicket victory in a high-scoring contest – their first win against India in seven years.
India women, led by the experienced Harmanpreet Kaur, finished at the top of the table with three wins in the round robin stage. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka women, captained by veteran all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu, will need to overcome their disappointing loss to South Africa in their final group match if they are aiming for the title.
The Indian squad boasts formidable batting strength, led by Jemimah Rodrigues, who has already scored a century in the tournament. In-form opener Pratika Rawal has been consistently impressive, while Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma, Harleen Deol, and skipper Kaur provide remarkable depth to their batting lineup.
India’s bowling attack centres around their exceptional spin trio of Sneh Rana – the tournament’s leading wicket-taker – alongside Deepti Sharma and Shree Charani. Together, they have claimed an impressive 21 wickets in the competition.
The hosts will rely heavily on Harshitha Samarawickrama, who has notched two half-centuries and is Sri Lanka’s top scorer in the tournament. Additional batting support is expected from Hasini Perera, Nilakshika Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, and captain Athapaththu, whose performance could prove decisive for the home side’s chances. Sri Lanka’s bowling strategy will feature spinners Dewmi Vihanga and Athapaththu, with pace bowler Malika Madara providing crucial support against India’s formidable batting order.
While India enters the final as favourites, seeking to avenge their previous defeat, Sri Lanka’s home advantage and renewed confidence could make for a compelling contest. Sri Lanka Cricket has announced free entry for spectators to encourage support for the home team.