High-Stakes Showdown: India Women Thrash Sri Lanka by 97 Runs to Clinch Tri-Series Title
In a stunning display of skill and determination, the India Women’s cricket team claimed a decisive 97-run victory over Sri Lanka Women in the final of the Sri Lanka Women’s ODI Tri-Series 2025, held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. This impressive win not only earned India the title but also reinforced their position in third place in the ICC Women’s ODI rankings, highlighting their strength and consistency on the global stage.
A Formidable Total Led by Smriti Mandhana
Choosing to bat first on a dry pitch in Colombo, India set a formidable tone for the match with a powerful batting display, finishing with a remarkable total of 342/7 in 50 overs. The standout performer was opener Smriti Mandhana, who dazzled with a brilliant 116 runs off just 101 balls, marking her 11th ODI century. Her innings was filled with graceful drives, aggressive pull shots, and impeccable timing, reminding everyone why she’s considered one of the most dependable and stylish batters in women’s cricket.
Mandhana’s century was vital, laying a solid foundation for the middle order to build upon. Harleen Deol contributed a mature 47 runs, while Jemimah Rodrigues (44) and Harmanpreet Kaur (41) kept the momentum alive with their aggressive yet calculated stroke play. Together, these efforts propelled India past the 300-run mark, putting Sri Lanka under immediate pressure.
Sri Lanka’s Shaky Start and Resilient Resistance
Chasing 343 runs in a final is no small feat, and Sri Lanka stumbled right from the start. Their innings got off to a rocky beginning with opener Hasini Perera falling for a duck. The top-order collapse continued as India’s bowling attack, spearheaded by the ever-reliable Sneh Rana, struck consistently to disrupt the chase.
Captain Chamari Athapaththu showed some fight with a determined 51, showcasing both grit and flair as she tried to stabilize the innings. She received solid support from Nilakshi de Silva, who chipped in with 48 runs, but the required run rate kept climbing, making the task increasingly daunting.
