## **Washout Dulls Sri Lanka’s High After Nilakshika Silva’s Rapid Fifty Lifts Them to 258**
Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team looked poised for a breakthrough moment as they posted a strong total of **258/6** in their match against **New Zealand** at the R. Premadasa Stadium, thanks largely to a scintillating knock from **Nilakshika de Silva**. However, persistent rain turned the game into a washout, denying their opponents a chance to chase. ([Sky Sports][1])
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🔥 Silva’s Rapid Fifty Steals the Show
Coming in at number six, **Nilakshika de Silva** lit up the innings with an unbeaten **55 off just 28 balls**, marking the fastest half-century of the tournament so far (50 in 26 balls). Her late assault helped Sri Lanka add **80 runs in the final 10 overs**—a surge that pushed them to their second-highest total in World Cup history. ([ESPN Cricinfo][2])
Earlier contributions came from skipper **Chamari Athapaththu**, who crafted a well-paced 53 off 72 balls, and **Vishmi Gunaratne**, who played a steady 42. Together, they built strong foundations for the late flourish. ([Cricketnmore][3])
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🌧 Rain and a Match Left in Limbo
Just as Sri Lanka looked set to put their total to the test, heavy rains intervened. The pitch was covered before New Zealand could even take the field for their chase. The match was officially abandoned, and each side ended up sharing one point. ([Sky Sports][1])
Despite the damp ending, Sri Lanka’s batting display was a bright spot in the tournament, especially given some earlier washouts in their schedule. ([Cricket Country][4])
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### 📊 Impact on the Tournament & What It Means
* Sri Lanka now sits **seventh in the standings**, having earned two rain-affected points. ([Cricket Country][4])
* For New Zealand, the washout meant a missed opportunity to chase. The weather denied them a chance to respond. ([Sky Sports][1])
* Silva’s record-making innings not only boosts her stature but also gives Sri Lanka hope — even though the result was beyond control.
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### ✅ Final Thoughts
Cricket can sometimes be a cruel game: high hopes, big displays, and yet weather can override everything. Sri Lanka will regret not having a full match to prove their batting strength, but **Nilakshika de Silva’s blazing half-century** will be remembered as a highlight of the tournament.
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