In a stunning display of determination and skill, the Sri Lankan women’s cricket team painted the Senwes Park in Potchefstroom with their own shade of glory last Wednesday (April 17). By defying all odds, Chamari Athapaththu led her side to a thrilling victory over South Africa, ensuring a drawn series and etching their names into the annals of cricket history with the highest successful run chase ever seen in women’s ODI cricket.
The day belonged to the island nation as their fearless pursuit of a formidable target culminated in a six-wicket win against the hosts. The chase surpassed a benchmark that had stood for over a decade; the Sri Lankans chased down an imposing 302 runs, outclassing Australia’s previous record of 289, achieved back in 2012.
The historic run chase was anchored by an outstanding innings from the Sri Lankan captain Athapaththu, who notched up her career’s finest performance at the crease. Her unbeaten 195 off 139 balls is now the third-highest individual score in the domain of women’s ODI cricket. The explosive innings was embellished with a staggering 26 boundaries and five sixes, laying bare the inadequacy of the Proteas’ bowling attack under the onslaught.
Athapaththu’s masterclass in batting overturned her own prior personal best of an unbeaten 178, a feat that was established against none other than cricketing giants, Australia, back in 2017. Her innings on this historic day didn’t just contribute to the triumph but set a new precedent for what can be achieved in the women’s game.
Yet, it’s essential to acknowledge the impressive batting exploits displayed by South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt as well, whose own innings of 184* rendered her the author of the fifth highest score in women’s ODI history. Her magisterial knock, characterized by conscientious shot selection and sheer grace, included 23 fours and four sixes. Wolvaardt’s formidable partnership with opener Lara Goodall laid a solid foundation for the South African innings, pushing their total beyond the 300-run mark.
Despite this powerhouse performance from the hosts, the daylight belonged to the visitors. Sri Lanka’s successful chase didn’t just add a remarkable feather in their cap but also injected crucial points into their standing on the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25 table. Currently perched at the seventh position, Sri Lanka has kept their dreams alive for automatic qualification to the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, an event that will see the top five teams on the table secure their spots alongside the host nation, India.
The day’s events stretched beyond conventional records and statistics; they symbolized the sheer unpredictability and competitive spirit that encapsulates the realm of cricket. They further emphasized the ascending trajectory of the women’s game, showcasing a brand of cricket that’s equally gripping and enthralling as any other.
While the bat and ball saga will continue to see records tumble and new benchmarks set, what transpired at Senwes Park will be talked about for years to come as a pure testament to the brilliance of women’s cricket. The Sri Lankan team’s monumental chase not only leveled the series but also delivered an unmistakable message about the rising standards and ever-growing appeal of the women’s game to audiences around the globe.
