Sri Lanka Women down Ireland by 14 runs

Ireland managed only 115 in its allotted 20 overs after being set a target of 130. Its chase was marred after it lost two wickets in the first five overs.

Sri Lanka Women defeated Ireland by 14 runs in a World Twenty20 group phase clash at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium here on Sunday.

Ireland managed only 115 in its allotted 20 overs after being set a target of 130. Its chase got off to a poor start when Clare Shillington (1) was bowled by Sugandaki Kumari (three for 24) in the second over and never really got going with first down batswoman Cath Dalton (5) departing in the fourth over with the score at 18 for two.

Isobel Joyce (24), joined with Cecila Joyce (29) and later with Laura Delany (29), to revived the innings somewhat. But she was run out in the 16th over, with the score at 87 for four, ruining Ireland’s chances.

Earlier, Sri Lanka got a positive start to its innings with Chamari Atapattu (34) and Yasoda Mendis (9) posting 45 in 5.2 overs.

Mendis’ dismissal by Ciara Metcalfe (four for 15) triggered a collapse, reducing them to 59 for five inside 10 overs.

But Prasadani Weerakkody’s (32) contribution proved crucial and she together with Eshani Lokusuriyage (35) helped Sri Lanka to 129 for seven.