Defending champions Sri Lanka began their Women’s T20 Asia Cup campaign with a commanding nine-wicket victory over hosts UAE.
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu elected to field in the tournament being held in the UAE.
Chethana Vimukthi, the 24-year-old fast bowler from Monaragala, earned her first cap for Sri Lanka and made an immediate impact on the international stage, claiming the Player of the Match award on debut.
Sri Lanka dismissed the UAE for a below-par 79 in 19.5 overs. Debutant Vimukthi and fellow fast bowler Ayodhya were the most successful bowlers, taking three wickets each. Veteran spinner Sugandika Kumari claimed two wickets, while Athapaththu and all-rounder Kavisha Dilhari shared the remaining two.
Sri Lanka then raced to the 80-run target in eight overs, losing only opener Imesha Dulani, who scored 25. Athapaththu remained unbeaten on 48.
Sri Lanka will next face Indonesia on 2 September 2026.
Scorecard: Sri Lanka 80/1 (Athapaththu 48*) beat UAE 79 (Oza 18, Ayodhya 3/14, Vimukthi 3/16).
