Guwahati, Oct 1 (HS): The Indian women’s cricket team made a commanding start to their World Cup campaign, defeating Sri Lanka by 59 runs in the tournament opener at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. All-rounder Deepti Sharma emerged as the match-winner with a stellar performance both with bat and ball.

Batting first, India recovered strongly from early setbacks to post a competitive total. Deepti Sharma’s composed 87-run knock, complemented by Amnajot Kaur’s gritty 57, proved decisive as the duo added a crucial 103 runs for the seventh wicket. Harleen Deol (48) and Pratika Rawal (37) also chipped in with timely contributions to bolster the innings.

Chasing a revised target of 271 under the DLS method, Sri Lanka faltered against disciplined Indian bowling, folding for 211 in 45.4 overs. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu (43), Nilakshi de Silva (35) and Harshitha Samarawickrama (29) offered resistance, but lacked the partnerships to mount a serious challenge.

In the bowling department, Deepti carried her momentum, picking up 3 wickets to dismantle Sri Lanka’s middle order. She was ably supported by Sneh Rana and Sri Charani, who claimed two wickets each, ensuring India stayed in command throughout.

With this emphatic victory, the Indian women’s team kicked off their title quest on a high note, gaining both momentum and confidence in their World Cup campaign.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar