Sri Lanka chase survival, South Africa chase certainty in rain-soaked Colombo

WEB DESK: Sri Lanka opted to bat first against South Africa in Colombo under clear skies, hoping to finally secure a win in the tournament. Captain Chamari Athapaththu stuck with an unchanged XI, banking on the same side that impressed with the bat against New Zealand before rain washed out play. Sri Lanka, currently winless but with two points from no-results, are looking to capitalise on home conditions and a dry surface.

South Africa, placed third in the standings, made three changes as they look to seal a semi-final berth. Wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso, just 18, was handed her first World Cup appearance, replacing Sinalo Jafta. All-rounder Sune Luus returned after recovering from a hip flexor strain, while offspinner Nondumiso Shangase came in for Anneke Bosch. The changes were strategic, aimed at countering Sri Lanka’s left-hand-heavy batting lineup. Regular pacer Ayabonga Khaka continued to miss out, with Annerie Dercksen retaining her place after a solid showing in the previous match.

South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt said she was content to bowl first, noting that dew later in the evening could make chasing easier. The pitch had been under covers for the past two days, which could offer some assistance to bowlers early on.

Athapaththu, however, was confident in her side’s batting depth, saying the team wanted to “play to their strength.” A win for South Africa would all but confirm their spot in the semi-finals, while Sri Lanka are desperate to keep their campaign alive.

The match may decide their fate. Chamari Athapaththu’s side has battled valiantly, but rain has washed away every opportunity for victory, leaving them winless after four matches. South Africa, meanwhile, have turned adversity into momentum, winning three in a row since their loss to England and closing in on a semi-final spot. With Laura Wolvaardt in sublime form and Nilakshika Silva showing fight, both teams now face an opponent beyond their control — the weather.