The much-awaited second match of the Sri Lanka Women’s Tri-Nation Series 2025 will feature India Women (INDW) taking on South Africa Women (RSAW) on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Both teams will look to put up a strong performance in this crucial encounter as the series continues to build momentum.
The Sri Lanka Women’s Tri-Nation Series has become a significant event in the women’s cricket calendar, bringing together top teams to compete in a round-robin format before heading into the final. This tournament serves as an important platform for the players to gain match experience and form ahead of upcoming international events.
India Women Squad for the 2nd Match:
India Women’s cricket team, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, boasts a well-balanced squad, mixing experience with promising youth talent. The squad for the second match includes:
India Women Squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Richa Ghosh (wk), Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Kashvee Gautam, Arundhati Reddy, Sneh Rana, Nallapureddy Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Amanjot Kaur, Tejal Hasabnis, Shuchi Upadhyay
The squad includes several seasoned players like Smriti Mandhana, who is known for her aggressive batting style, and Deepti Sharma, an all-rounder who can turn the match in India’s favor with both bat and ball. Additionally, Richa Ghosh, who has been making waves as a promising wicketkeeper-batter, will play a crucial role in ensuring India’s progress.
South Africa Women Squad for the 2nd Match:
South Africa Women’s team, captained by Laura Wolvaardt, is equally formidable, with a mix of experienced campaigners and young, dynamic players. The squad for the second match includes:
South Africa Women Squad: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Sinalo Jafta (wk), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Nadine de Klerk, Chloe Tryon, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Karabo Meso, Miane Smit, Nondumiso Shangase, Seshnie Naidu
Key players like Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus have been consistent performers for South Africa in the past, and their leadership on the field will be crucial. The presence of all-rounder Chloe Tryon provides South Africa with the balance it needs, making them a tough opponent for India. Ayabonga Khaka, with her pace bowling, could prove to be a crucial player in breaking India’s batting line-up.
Match Venue – R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo:
The R. Premadasa Stadium, known for its spin-friendly wicket, will be the venue for this exciting match. The stadium has hosted several iconic women’s matches in the past, and players are expected to make the most of its unique conditions. The venue's large playing area will also provide ample opportunities for outfielding, which could be a key factor in the outcome of the game.
Key Matchups to Watch:
Smriti Mandhana vs. Ayabonga Khaka: Smriti Mandhana, one of India’s star batters, will look to exploit any loose deliveries from the pace attack of South Africa. Ayabonga Khaka, known for her consistent line and length, will be aiming to break Mandhana’s aggressive batting rhythm.
Harmanpreet Kaur vs. Nonkululeko Mlaba: Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s aggressive batting could face a stern test against the left-arm spin of Nonkululeko Mlaba. Kaur’s ability to handle spin will be under the spotlight in this contest.
Deepti Sharma vs. Sune Luus: Deepti Sharma is one of the best all-rounders in the Indian team, and her battle against South Africa’s all-rounder Sune Luus will be critical. Both players can contribute significantly with the bat and ball.
Chloe Tryon vs. India’s Bowlers: Chloe Tryon’s explosive batting could be the game-changer for South Africa. India’s bowlers, including Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana, will have to keep Tryon in check to avoid any late-game fireworks.
Strategic Focus for Both Teams:
India Women: For India, the main focus will be on building partnerships at the top of the order and ensuring that the middle order remains strong. The team will look to their spin bowlers to dominate, as R. Premadasa Stadium tends to favor spin as the match progresses. The lower-order batting depth, including players like Sneh Rana and Deepti Sharma, will be key in handling pressure situations.
South Africa Women: South Africa will likely focus on their pace attack early in the innings, with Ayabonga Khaka and Masabata Klaas expected to lead the charge. In the latter stages of the game, the onus will be on their middle-order batters like Tazmin Brits and Lara Goodall to accelerate the scoring. Their bowlers will need to create breakthroughs early to challenge India’s batting strength.
What to Expect:
Fans can expect an exciting and closely contested match between two strong teams. India will look to continue their dominance in women’s cricket, while South Africa will seek to assert their own authority and make a statement. The conditions in Colombo could favor the spinners, making it a thrilling contest where the balance between bat and ball will be the deciding factor.
With both teams packed with talent and experience, the game promises to be a thrilling encounter that could set the tone for the rest of the series. Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting what will surely be an exciting match between India Women and South Africa Women in the Sri Lanka Women’s Tri-Nation Series 2025.
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