Sri Lanka Women completed a dominant 3-0 T20I series sweep against Bangladesh Women, edging a tense, rain-shortened third match by just three runs at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

In a contest reduced to nine overs per side, Bangladesh fell short of a target of 88, finishing on 84 for 6 despite being well positioned at several stages of the chase. The narrow defeat capped a disappointing series for the hosts, who struggled to convert promising moments into results.

Sri Lanka’s innings was anchored by captain Chamari Athapaththu, who struck a composed 41 off 27 balls on a sluggish surface. Her knock proved decisive in guiding the visitors to 87 for 6. She later contributed with the ball, completing an influential all-round performance.

Bangladesh’s bowling effort was led by Sultana Khatun, who delivered an impressive spell of 3 for 8 in her two overs to restrict Sri Lanka and keep the chase within reach.

According to Dhaka Tribune, Bangladesh’s chase showed flashes of promise, particularly during a 30-run partnership between Juairia Ferdous and Sobhana Mostari, who scored 15 and 21, respectively, to revive hopes after an early setback.

However, regular wickets in the closing stages derailed the innings. With 32 needed off the final 20 balls, Bangladesh remained in contention, but pressure told. Captain Nigar Sultana briefly reignited hopes with a six at the start of the final over before being dismissed on the next ball.

Needing five runs off the last delivery, a single from Sharmin Sultana was not enough, as Sri Lanka held their nerve to seal a thrilling victory.

Athapaththu was named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series, underlining her pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s clean sweep, having also guided her side to wins of 25 and 21 runs in the opening two matches.

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