The Bahrain Women Colts team triumphed over Qatar by nine wickets today in a thrilling Riyadh Cricket League (RCL) Women’s Quadrangular Series finale in Saudi Arabia.
In a thrilling clash, the Colts emerged victorious against their formidable opponents, chasing down a target of 129 with ease in just 12.3 overs.
The match, held at a picturesque cricket ground in the Saudi capital, showcased exceptional performances, with Rasangika Herath stealing the show and earning the Player of the Match award for her all-round brilliance.
Winning the toss and electing to bat, the Qataris posted a competitive total of 128/4 in their allotted 15 overs.
Samina top-scored with a brisk 43 off 35 balls, including five boundaries, while Aysha (18 off 13) and Krisheta (18 off 15) provided valuable contributions. However, Qatar’s innings was hampered by disciplined bowling from Bahrain, particularly from Herath, who claimed two wickets for just 11 runs in her two overs.
Bahrain’s bowlers kept the pressure on, with Sadamali Nishshanka (1/18) and Tashka Wilkinson (1/38) also making key breakthroughs. Despite some late hitting from Angeline (14 off 12) and Rochelle (seven off four), Qatar fell short of setting a more imposing total.
In response, the Colts chased down the target with remarkable ease, reaching 129/1 in just 12.3 overs.
Wilkinson led the charge with an unbeaten 52 off 36 balls, showcasing her class with five boundaries. She was well-supported by Herath, who smashed a stunning 50 off just 26 balls, including seven boundaries, at a strike rate of 192.31.
The opening partnership of Rasika Rodrigo (16 off 13) and Wilkinson laid a solid foundation, and despite Rodrigo’s dismissal in the fifth over, Herath’s explosive innings ensured Bahrain cruised to victory.
Qatar’s bowlers struggled to contain the Colts, with only Samina (1/16) managing to pick up a wicket.
Herath was deservedly named Player of the Match for her outstanding all-round performance. Her economical bowling (2/11) and match-winning half-century (50 off 26) were instrumental in Bahrain’s victory.
Wilkinson was the consistent player for the Colts with regular 50s in batting – a good impact player both with bat and bowl.
Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF) advisory board chairman Mohammad Mansoor expressed his delight with the result and said It reflects the growing talent and passion for cricket among women in Bahrain, emphasising that the win will give more boost to the kingdom’s women’s programme.
BCF board member Alison Lillywhite praised the teams for their spirited performance. “This finale was a testament to the growing talent and competitiveness of women’s cricket in the region,” she said. “Both teams displayed exceptional skill and determination, and it’s heartening to see such high-quality cricket being played.
“Delighted to see Bahrain team winning and congratulations to the entire team and support staff for this resounding success.”
BCF board treasurer Meenaz Ahmed added: “The RCL Women’s Quadrangular Series has been a resounding success, and this finale was the perfect culmination.
“Congratulations to the Bahrain Women Colts for their victory, and kudos to the Qatar women for putting up a strong fight. We look forward to building on this success in the coming years.”
Captained by Sana Qamar, the Bahrain Women Colts team’s comprehensive victory in the RCL Women’s Quadrangular Series finale marked a significant milestone for women’s cricket in the region. The tournament not only provided a platform for emerging talent but also highlighted the growing popularity of the sport among women.
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