Sri Lanka Thrash UAE by 9 Wickets in Women's Asia Cup 2026

Sri Lanka Women made a statement in their Women's Asia Cup 2026 opener, thrashing United Arab Emirates Women by 9 wickets in just 7.5 overs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium — their biggest win by balls remaining in T20I history.

Put in to bat after Sri Lanka won the toss, UAE never found any rhythm against a disciplined Lankan attack. Mithali Ayodhya (3/14) and Chethana Vimukthi (3/16) shared six wickets between them as UAE lost regular wickets throughout, with only Esha Oza (18) and Samaira Dharnidharka (17) managing to get starts. UAE were bowled out for just 79 in 19.5 overs.

The chase was a formality. Openers Imesha Dulani and captain Chamari Athapaththu raced to 57 inside six overs before Dulani was run out for 25. Athapaththu carried on regardless, finishing unbeaten on a blistering 48 off just 25 balls with seven fours and two sixes, sealing the win alongside Sanjana Kavindi to wrap up the chase in 7.5 overs.

Sri Lanka open their Group B campaign with two points and a massive net run rate boost, while UAE will look to regroup when they face Indonesia Women next.