Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team stormed into the gold medal match of the 2026 Asian Games after defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by eight wickets in the first semi-final on September 20.
Pakistan, batting first after Sri Lanka elected to bowl, posted a formidable 177 for four in their allotted 20 overs. Ayesha Zafar led Pakistan’s batting effort with a blistering 71 off 40 balls, while Shawal Zulfiqar contributed 54 off 50 balls. The pair shared a crucial 115-run partnership to give Pakistan a strong platform.
Sri Lanka produced a commanding response, reaching 178 for two in just 17.5 overs to complete an emphatic eight-wicket victory with 13 balls to spare. Captain Chamari Athapaththu spearheaded the chase with a magnificent unbeaten 83 off 50 balls, including seven fours and six sixes.
Hasini Perera provided valuable support with an unbeaten 42 off 26 balls as Sri Lanka maintained control of the chase and comfortably surpassed Pakistan’s total.
With the victory, Sri Lanka secured their place in the women’s cricket gold medal match at the Asian Games. Pakistan will now compete in the bronze medal playoff.
