Daijiworld Media Network - Colombo

Colombo, Oct 14: Rain once again had the final say at the R. Premadasa Stadium, as the Women’s World Cup 2025 fixture between Sri Lanka and New Zealand was abandoned without a ball bowled in the second innings. With the washout, both sides were forced to share a point each, marking the second rain-affected no result of the tournament in Colombo — both involving the hosts.

After Sri Lanka posted a strong 258/6 powered by Chamari Athapaththu’s half-century and a fiery late blitz from Nilakshika de Silva, rain delayed the start of New Zealand’s chase. A revised 30-over target had been set with a restart planned for 9:15 PM IST, but just as the teams prepared to take the field, heavy rain returned, forcing the umpires to call off the match.

Athapaththu, Gunaratne Lay the Foundation

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu looked in fine form, punishing anything wayward. Alongside Vishmi Gunaratne, the pair stitched together a 101-run opening stand, frustrating New Zealand’s bowling attack during the powerplay.

Gunaratne was handed a couple of lifelines and capitalised, grinding out a patient 42 off 83 balls. Athapaththu’s elegant 53 off 66 deliveries gave Sri Lanka early momentum before both openers fell in quick succession, allowing New Zealand to claw their way back into the game.

Middle-Order Wobble and Late Fireworks

Harshitha Samarawickrama (26) and Hasini Perera (44) attempted to stabilise the innings, adding 58 for the fourth wicket, but a mini-collapse saw Sri Lanka lose quick wickets in the middle overs.

Just when the innings seemed to be fizzling out, Nilakshika de Silva turned the tide with a blistering 55 not out off 28 balls, including the fastest fifty of the tournament (26 balls). Her clean ball striking and composed aggression powered Sri Lanka to 258/6, adding 80 runs in the final 10 overs.

New Zealand Bowlers Left Frustrated

Skipper Sophie Devine was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, finishing with 3 for 54, while Bree Illing (2-39) and Rosemary Mair (1-29) chipped in. However, fielding errors and a lack of incisiveness with the new ball proved costly.

Weather Woes Continue in Colombo

Just before New Zealand could begin their chase, ominous clouds gathered, and torrential rain followed. Despite tireless efforts from the ground staff and a temporary break in the downpour, the match was eventually called off after more than two hours of stoppage.

This outcome adds complexity to the group stage standings, especially for New Zealand, who now have one loss and one no result in two matches. Sri Lanka, while still unbeaten, may feel frustrated at being denied the chance to defend a strong total.

With more rain forecast in Colombo in the coming days, concerns are growing over weather disruptions affecting the tournament's progress.