Sri Lanka edge Bangladesh in last-over thriller in ICC Women’s World Cup

Sri Lanka kept their semi-final hopes alive in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 after a nail-biting eight-run victory over Bangladesh on Monday, holding their nerve in a dramatic finish at the DY Patil Stadium.

Defending 203 runs, Sri Lanka’s captain Chamari Athapaththu produced a sensational final over, conceding just one run and claiming three wickets as Bangladesh, needing eight to win, crumbled to 195/9.

Bangladesh’s chase was anchored by Nigar Sultana Joty (77) and *Sharmin Akter (64)**, who stitched a crucial 82-run stand that had their team cruising at 176/4 with five overs to go. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers fought back valiantly, with Athapaththu’s late brilliance sealing a stunning turnaround.

Athapaththu finished with 4/42, supported by Sugandika Kumari (2/29) and Udeshika Prabodhani (1/29), as Sri Lanka snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.

Earlier, Bangladesh’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to bowl Sri Lanka out for 202. Hasini Perera top-scored with a fluent 85, while Athapaththu (46) and Nilakshika Silva (37) provided valuable support. From a strong position at 174/4, Sri Lanka suffered a late collapse, losing their last six wickets for just 28 runs.

For Bangladesh, Shorna Akter (3/27) starred with the ball, ably backed by Rabeya Khatun (2/39), while Marufa Akter, Nishita Akter, and Nahida Akter claimed one wicket each.

The victory means Sri Lanka remain in contention for a semi-final spot, while Bangladesh’s campaign ends after their fifth defeat of the tournament.

Sri Lanka will next face Pakistan on October 24, while Bangladesh are set to take on India on October 26 in their final group stage encounter.