Sri Lanka began its Women’s Asia Cup title defence in dominating fashion after a breezy nine-wicket win over host UAE at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday.
Chasing a meagre 80-run total, the island nation hacked down the target in 7.5 overs for the loss of one wicket. A 57-run opening partnership between captain Chamari Athapaththu (48 not out off 25) and Imesha Dulani (25 off 18) set the base for Sri Lanka’s biggest win in women’s T20Is.
UAE’s lacklustre bowling performance especially came to the fore during just the second over of the innings. Samaira Dharnidharka was smacked for 15 runs, which included three fours.
Dulani walked back to the hut just before the end of the PowerPlay as UAE skipper Esha Oza effected a run out, but the damage had already been done.
AS IT HAPPENED | Sri Lanka vs UAE Highlights
Athapaththu once again showcased her destructive shots, hitting seven fours and two sixes. She punched the air in celebration after her teammate Sanjana Kavindi ran two runs to wrap up an easy victory.
Earlier in the match, UAE’s innings never got going after Theertha Satish was removed on the fourth ball by pacer Mithali Ayodhya. It was the host’s skipper Oza who top-scored for the side with a 24-ball 18.
Ayodhya and fellow pacer Aluth Vimukthi bagged three wickets each, while Sugandika Kumari picked up two scalps.
Both Sri Lanka and UAE next face Indonesia on September 2 and 4 respectively.
Published on Aug 29, 2026