Thiruvananthapuram, December 28: India produced a dominant all-round batting performance to defeat Sri Lanka by 30 runs in the fourth women’s T20I at Thiruvananthapuram, taking an unassailable 4–0 lead in the five-match series. In stark contrast to the earlier low-scoring games, the contest turned into a high-scoring spectacle for India, who posted their highest total in women’s T20 internationals.
India’s imposing 221 for 2 proved beyond Sri Lanka’s reach, despite an aggressive chase that saw the visitors finish on 191 for 6.
Mandhana and Shafali dismantle Sri Lanka attack
Openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma set the platform with a record-breaking partnership, combining for 162 runs off just 92 deliveries — the highest opening stand for India in women’s T20Is.
Shafali continued her excellent run of form, bringing up her third consecutive T20I half-century and scoring a fluent 79 built around sharp placement and controlled aggression. Mandhana, after a relatively quiet start to the series, rediscovered her touch in emphatic fashion, striking 80 with a mix of crisp drives and clean hitting over the infield. Her innings took her to 10,000 international runs across formats, joining Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates, and Charlotte Edwards as the fourth batter to achieve this.
India dominated early in the powerplay with a strong opening stand by Mandhana and Shafali. India built a massive total with a strong opening stand that lasted until the 16th over.
Richa Ghosh powers the finish
With India already well placed, Richa Ghosh provided the final flourish after being promoted up the order for the closing overs. Richa Ghosh contributed with quick runs, helping propel India to a high total.
Sri Lanka’s strong start not enough
Sri Lanka began the chase with intent as Hasini Perera and captain Chamari Athapaththu attacked early, racing to 52 without loss inside four overs. Perera made 33, while Athapaththu anchored the innings with a fighting 52, striking several boundaries and sixes to keep Sri Lanka in the contest.
However, the required rate continued to climb after Perera’s dismissal, and regular wickets disrupted the chase. Athapaththu’s departure in the 13th over left Sri Lanka requiring a steep rate from the final seven overs, a task that proved too steep despite late cameos.
Vaishnavi Sharma impresses with control
Amid the run-heavy evening, Vaishnavi Sharma stood out with the ball. A Indian bowler returned figures of 2 for 24, removing key batters at crucial moments and applying control during the middle and late overs. Her variations and disciplined lines played an important role in halting Sri Lanka’s momentum.
Match summary
India’s commanding batting display ultimately decided the contest, as Sri Lanka’s spirited chase fell short at 191 for 6. With one match remaining, India have sealed the series 4–0, underlining their depth and firepower in the shortest format.
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