Match 3 of the Serbia Women’s T20I Tri-Series saw Croatia Women deliver one of the most commanding team performances of the tournament, surging to a massive 122-run victory over Bulgaria Women at Lisicji Jarak Cricket Ground on September 5. After Bulgaria won the toss and elected to field, Croatia’s top order unleashed a brutal batting display to post a massive 189/2 in 20 overs. In response, Bulgaria’s lineup completely crumbled against Croatia’s lethal bowling attack, getting bundled out for just 67 runs in 13.3 overs.
Helen Leko’s Stunning 4-Fer Powers Croatia Women to 122-Run Win Over Bulgaria; PC: Getty
Croatia’s power-packed batting performance was spearheaded by opener Mia Durdevac, who tore into the Bulgarian attack with a brilliant 68 off 83 balls, striking 9 crisp boundaries. She received exceptional support from team captain Lidija Krvaric, who took an aggressive stance from the start, smashing 41 off just 36 balls with 4 fours and a maximum. Together, the duo formed a formidable partnership that pushed the scoring rate well past 9 runs an over.
Towards the end of the innings, Pavla Senjug added the finishing touches with a fiery cameo, striking 25 off 18 balls at an impressive strike rate of 138.89. Bulgaria’s bowlers had few answers to Croatia’s aggressive shot-making, with Kalina Paskova being the only bowler to break through, claiming 1 for 27 in her 2 overs. Croatia closed their innings on 189/2, setting an almost unreachable target for the opposition.
Faced with a daunting run-chase of 190, Bulgaria’s top order crumbled almost immediately under intense pressure. Dora Pavelic set the tone early with an aggressive spell, shattering Bulgaria’s top order to finish with remarkable figures of 3 for 18 in 3 overs. Skipper Lidija Krvaric also showcased her all-round skill, coming into the attack to pick up 2 wickets for just 8 runs in a highly economical spell.
Simona Yordanova provided a brief fightback for Bulgaria with a counter-attacking 23 off 13 balls (featuring 2 sixes and a four), but her cameo did little to halt Croatia’s charge. Player of the Match Helen Leko delivered a magical spell to wrap up the innings, taking 4 wickets for just 4 runs across 4 overs, including 3 maidens. Bulgaria was bowled out for 67 in 13.3 overs, handing Croatia an emphatic victory.
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