Captain Iresha Chathurani played a key role as Cyprus Women secured an 8-run victory over Greece Women in the first T20I, in a low-scoring contest shaped by disciplined bowling and steady partnerships.
After being asked to bat, Cyprus faced early setbacks and struggled to build momentum in the opening overs.
Chathurani Anchors Cyprus Recovery
Cyprus lost Dilini Ishara early for a duck, while Ayesha Dirannehalege managed just 6 off 24 balls before falling to Maria-afroditi Vervitsiotis. Nadeesha Waruwangodage also departed cheaply, leaving the side at 18 for 3.
The innings was stabilised through a crucial stand between Iresha Chathurani and Thamara De Silva. Chathurani top-scored with a composed 42 off 43 balls, including two boundaries, while De Silva added 7 off 15 deliveries.
Following De Silva’s dismissal at 41 for 4, the middle order contributed small but important runs. Sassi Jayakodi remained unbeaten on 5, helping Cyprus bat through their full 20 overs.
Extras proved significant, contributing 20 runs, as Cyprus posted 84 for 8.
Greece Bowlers Keep It Tight
Greece’s bowlers shared the wickets effectively. Sofia-nefeli Georgota was the standout performer, claiming 3 for 6 in her four overs. Maria-afroditi Vervitsiotis took 2 wickets for 19, while Adamantia Makri returned figures of 2 for 9. Maria Syrioti also picked up a wicket.
Greece Fall Short in Chase
Chasing 85, Greece began cautiously but lost Aggeliki-ioanna Argyropoulou early for 4. A partnership between Aggeliki Savvani (10 off 25) and Adamantia Makri (9 off 17) provided some stability, but the scoring rate remained slow.
At 38 for 3, pressure mounted, and Maria Syrioti’s dismissal for 2 added to the challenge. Maria Polimeri offered resistance with 15 off 25 balls, while Sofia-nefeli Georgota contributed 10 off 16, but the chase never gathered momentum.
Despite receiving 25 extras, Greece were restricted to 76 for 9 in their 20 overs.
Cyprus Bowlers Seal Result
Cyprus maintained control with the ball throughout the innings. Samanthi Dunukedeniya led the attack with 2 for 13, while Chandrika Wijesinghe also picked up 2 wickets for 18 runs.
Ayesha Dirannehalege and Dinelka Koralalage claimed one wicket each, with Chathurani also contributing with the ball to complete an all-round performance.
Cyprus’ disciplined bowling and ability to defend a modest total ultimately proved decisive in securing victory.
