The action at the Women’s Cricket World Cup is heating up in Colombo as Sri Lanka, after winning the toss, has opted to bat first against a formidable South African team today.
South Africa is riding high on confidence, having swiftly recovered from a heavy defeat against England in their opening match to claim three consecutive victories. Their impressive run includes nail-biting wins against strong contenders like India and Bangladesh, demonstrating their competitive edge.
For Sri Lanka, the quest for their first outright win in the tournament continues. However, they have managed to secure two valuable points from earlier matches that were abandoned due to rain against Australia and New Zealand, keeping their campaign alive.
Historically, South Africa holds a considerable advantage over Sri Lanka in Women’s One-Day Internationals, with a head-to-head record of 16 wins to Sri Lanka’s 6. Interestingly, since the beginning of 2024, the rivalry has been more balanced, with both teams each securing two victories.
Sri Lanka has decided to field an unchanged side, maintaining the lineup that posted a strong total of 258-6 against New Zealand in their previous game.
Conversely, South Africa has made three alterations to their playing XI. Sune Luus steps in for the out-of-form Anneke Bosch, and Nondumiso Shangase alongside Karabo Meso have also been included in the team.
Local weather forecasts indicate a possibility of rain affecting the game later in the afternoon. Early pitch conditions are expected to favor fast bowlers, with spinners anticipated to make a greater impact as the match progresses.
Teams
Sri Lanka: Vishmi Gunaratne, Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Piumi Wathsala, Anushka Sanjeewani, Sugandika Kumari, Malki Madara, Inoka Ranaweera.
South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Annerie Dercksen, Marizanne Kapp, Karabo Meso, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Nondumiso Shangase, Masabata Klaas, Nonkululeko Mlaba.