Belgrade, Serbia – Cyprus Women claimed their second consecutive victory in the T20I series against Serbia Women, winning by 22 runs in a tightly contested low-scoring encounter at the Lisicji Jarak Cricket Ground. Cyprus posted a modest total of 90 in 17.2 overs, but their bowlers stepped up, restricting Serbia to 68/6 in their 20 overs, sealing a crucial win and taking a 2-0 lead in the series.
Cyprus’ Tumbling Innings:
Cyprus Women won the toss and opted to bat, but their top order faltered early. Thanuja Gedarage and Sasmi Jayakodi fell cheaply, putting Cyprus in a vulnerable position at 15/2 within 4 overs. Ayesha Dirannehelage played a fighting knock of 17 off 22 balls, but wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals. Serbia’s bowlers, led by Maja Jevdjenovic (3/15) and Tamara Trajkovic (3/20), applied consistent pressure, bowling Cyprus out for 90 in 17.2 overs. Extras proved vital, with 26 runs added to Cyprus’ total through wides and no-balls.
Serbia’s Struggles in the Chase:
Chasing 91, Serbia Women faced early setbacks when Tamara Trajkovic fell for a duck on the first ball. Their top and middle order struggled to gain momentum, with only Ana Mesarovic putting up a notable fight, scoring 27 off 39 balls. Serbia’s captain Magdalena Nikolic tried to anchor the innings with a slow but determined 11 off 40 balls, but the lack of partnerships and pressure from Cyprus’ bowlers, especially Alexandra Taylor (2/15) and Dinelka Koralalage (2/17), saw Serbia fall short by 22 runs, finishing on 68/6 after 20 overs.
Key Performers:
- Cyprus Women:
- Ayesha Dirannehelage: 17 (22)
- Alexandra Taylor: 2/15 (4 overs)
- Dinelka Koralalage: 2/17 (4 overs)
- Serbia Women:
- Ana Mesarovic: 27 (39) & 1/15 (3 overs)
- Maja Jevdjenovic: 3/15 (3.2 overs)
- Tamara Trajkovic: 3/20 (4 overs)
Records and Notable Moments:
- Ana Mesarovic was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance, contributing both with the bat and the ball.
- Despite being bowled out for a low total, Cyprus Women successfully defended 90 runs, showcasing disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
Brief Scores:
Cyprus Women: 90 all out in 17.2 overs (Ayesha Dirannehelage 17, Maja Jevdjenovic 3/15, Tamara Trajkovic 3/20)
Serbia Women: 68/6 in 20 overs (Ana Mesarovic 27, Alexandra Taylor 2/15, Dinelka Koralalage 2/17)
Result: Cyprus Women won by 22 runs
Cyprus now leads the 4-match T20I series 2-0, and Serbia will need to regroup quickly if they hope to stay alive in the series as the third match looms.
