SL vs SA: [Watch] Nilakshi de Silva Takes A Sensational Catch To Dismiss Chloe Tryon

The ODI Tri-Nation Series in Colombo, featuring India, South Africa, and host nation Sri Lanka, has been a stage for thrilling encounters and rising stars. Each match has added a new chapter to the growing legacy of women’s cricket, and the latest contest between Sri Lanka and South Africa was no exception.

Sri Lanka’s remarkable run chase, spearheaded by fearless middle-order batting and outstanding fielding, left fans in awe and South Africa reeling with back-to-back defeats.

South Africa’s Batting Performance

The action unfolded at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. With the heat bearing down and a slow pitch testing the batters. South Africa won the toss and chose to bat first. Right off the bat, South Africa stumbled. Within 120 runs, half their side had returned to the pavilion. The top order failed to adapt to the sluggish pitch, with early dismissals setting a tense tone.

The Sixth-Wicket Revival: Tryon and Dercksen

Then came the lifeline—Chloe Tryon and Annerie Dercksen. Together, they forged a vital 66-run partnership that resurrected the innings. Tryon’s aggressive intent blended perfectly with Dercksen’s calm composure. Dercksen’s maiden ODI half-century was the standout of the innings.

Her 61 off 60 balls featured elegant drives and clever placement. Tryon chipped in with a valuable 35, while others struggled to keep pace. Despite the rocky middle overs, South Africa posted a decent 235/9—a target they hoped would be defendable on a sluggish track.

Sri Lanka’s Bowling Prowess

Madara was lethal, ending with figures of 4 for 50. Her controlled seam bowling dismantled the top order and set the tone early for the hosts. Dewmi Vihanga made a dream debut, grabbing three wickets in her first ODI appearance. The young offspinner instantly made an impact, dismissing key batters and showcasing immense promise. Veterans Sugandika Kumari and Inoka Ranaweera provided the support act, each picking up a wicket and tightening the screws in the middle overs.

Nilakshika Silva’s Stunning Catch

Fielding often wins matches, and Silva proved it with a stunner at long-on. As Tryon aimed for a six, Silva ran in, timed her dive to perfection, and caught the ball just inches from the boundary. She avoided the boundary rope, kept her balance, and gave her debutant bowler a wicket to remember. It was a stunner that changed the game’s tempo and probably left even Tryon applauding.

𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐧𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭, 𝐍𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐢 𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐯𝐚…😱

She plucks the ball out of thin air to send Chloe Tryon back and break a budding partnership between the former and Annerie Dercksen 🙌#SLvSA #TriSeries #ODISeries pic.twitter.com/EdUQsiH74l

— FanCode (@FanCode) May 2, 2025

Sri Lanka’s Run Chase

The chase didn’t begin as planned. Captain Athapaththu, Sri Lanka’s most dangerous batter, fell early. The tension rose—but so did the determination of the rest of the lineup. Vishmi Gunaratne and Hasini Perera built a resilient 69-run partnership, absorbing pressure and keeping the scoreboard ticking. They rotated strike efficiently, ensuring the innings regained stability and set the stage for an explosive finish. A perfect example of composure under pressure!

Then entered Kavisha Dilhari and Harshitha Samarawickrama, who turned the game on its head. They rotated strike, punished bad deliveries, and never let the required rate get out of hand. Their 128-run partnership was a lesson in composure and clarity. Both reached their fifties and ensured Sri Lanka crossed the finish line with ease.

South Africa’s On-Field Struggles

The South Africans faced more than just Sri Lanka’s attack—they battled Colombo’s sweltering heat and a bit of bad luck too. Karabo Meso had to leave the field due to heat-related illness, while Sune Luus suffered a painful knee bruise mid-match. These setbacks made things tougher for a team already under pressure.

This win is more than just two points—it’s a confidence booster for Sri Lanka. For South Africa, it’s a wake-up call. With two losses in the bag, their path to the final looks tricky. Meanwhile, India will now keep a close watch as the competition heats up.