Sri Lanka beat India to secure maiden Women's Asia Cup title

Sri Lanka clinched their first-ever Women's Asia Cup title by defeating India by eight wickets at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

India, opting to bat first after winning the toss, posted a total of 165 for 6.

Smriti Mandhana anchored the innings with a solid 60 off 47 balls, which included 10 fours. Richa Ghosh provided a late surge, scoring a quickfire 30 off 14 balls, featuring four boundaries and a six, propelling India past the 150-run mark.

Despite India's strong start, racing to 44 without loss at the end of the powerplay, Sri Lankan bowlers, led by Kavisha Dilhari (2/36), staged a comeback.

In reply, Sri Lanka executed a remarkable chase, spearheaded by Chamari Athapaththu, Harshita Samarawickrama, and Dilhari.

Athapaththu’s innings of 61 laid a solid foundation before she was dismissed in the 12th over.

Harshita, who had earlier dropped two catches, compensated with a counter-attacking half-century.

Her unbeaten 69 off 50 balls, featuring two sixes and six fours, along with Dilhari’s 16-ball 30, guided Sri Lanka to victory in the 19th over amidst the cheers of a packed Dambulla crowd.