Sri Lanka pulled off a stunning upset against Australia in the ICC U19 Women’s World Cup 2025, securing a thrilling 12-run victory to conclude their tournament on a high note.
Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Sri Lanka looked determined to set a competitive total. Openers Sanjana Kavindi and Sumudu Nisansala provided a steady start, guiding their side to 36-0 at the end of the powerplay. However, Lily Bassingthwaighte made the breakthrough, dismissing Nisansala, before Tegan Williamson struck to remove Kavindi. By the 10-over mark, Sri Lanka stood at 56-2, with Australia tightening their grip.
Despite promising starts from the middle order, Sri Lanka struggled to build substantial partnerships. Regular wickets fell, preventing them from accelerating in the latter stages of the innings. The Australians maintained pressure with disciplined bowling, eventually bowling out Sri Lanka for 99. Bassingthwaighte was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets, while Williamson and Hasrat Gill chipped in with two wickets each.
In response, Australia’s chase got off to a shaky start as they lost three early wickets, putting them under immediate pressure. Caoimhe Bray and Eleanor Larosa steadied the innings with a crucial 41-run partnership, but Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling attack ensured they never gained full control. With the lower order failing to capitalize, Australia fell 12 runs short, succumbing to a shocking defeat.
Chamudi Praboda starred with the ball for Sri Lanka, finishing with excellent figures of 2/13, while Pramudi Methsara and Aseni Thalagune also impressed, claiming two wickets each. Limansa Thilakaratne was named Player of the Match for her all-round contribution, taking 1/18 with the ball and scoring a quick 6 off 6 in Sri Lanka’s innings.
The defeat puts a dent in Australia’s campaign as they aimed to finish the Super Six stage strongly. While Lucy Hamilton’s side still remains in contention for the semi-finals, a massive win in their final group game would have been needed to challenge India for the top spot in Group 1. With momentum being key heading into the knockout stages, this loss serves as a wake-up call for Australia.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will take immense pride in their performance, proving that they are capable of challenging the tournament’s top teams and leaving the competition on a high note.
