A composed century from Sidra Amin proved insufficient as Sri Lanka's batters authored a record-breaking partnership to level the ODI series. The second match in Hambantota showcased batting depth on both sides, but it was the hosts' historic 203-run stand that ultimately decided the contest. Main Developments Sri Lanka chased down Pakistan's 274-run target with 19 balls to spare at the Mahinda Rajapaksa Cricket Stadium on Saturday. The emphatic eight-wicket victory squared the three-match series at 1-1 after Pakistan had won the opener. Vishmi Gunaratne and Harshitha Samarawickrama constructed the highest partnership for any wicket in Sri Lanka's women's ODI history. Their 203-run stand was also the first 200-plus collaboration for the team in the format, coming after the early dismissal of captain Chamari Athapaththu for just one run. Read also: How India's Depth Overcame Zimbabwe's Teen Sensation to Clinch T20 Series Gunaratne smashed 123 off 123 balls, including 11 fours and a six, before being stumped. Samarawickrama reached her century off 119 deliveries and remained not out, with Kavisha Dilhari contributing an unbeaten 40 off 33 balls to seal the chase in 46.5 overs. Earlier, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana won the toss and elected to bat first. Sidra anchored the innings with an unbeaten 100 off 120 balls, her seventh ODI century, which she brought up in the final over. Ayesha Zafar contributed 49 off 45 balls, Muneeba Ali made 45, and Fatima added a brisk 25 off 18 deliveries to push the total to 273 for five. Background Pakistan entered the match with momentum after winning the first ODI, but Sri Lanka responded strongly on a batting-friendly surface. The absence of their regular captain Athapaththu, who was dismissed early, tested the hosts' batting depth—a challenge they met emphatically. Sidra's innings marked her continued form in the format, but Pakistan's bowling attack struggled to contain Sri Lanka's middle order after the early breakthrough. The visitors had successfully defended a total in the previous game but found the conditions here more conducive to batting. Why It Matters The series decider now carries extra weight for both sides, with Pakistan seeking their first ODI series win in Sri Lanka and the hosts aiming to avoid a home defeat. The match also highlighted the growing competitiveness of women's cricket in Asia, where batting depth and record partnerships are becoming more common. For Pakistan, the inability to defend a 274-run total raises questions about their bowling adaptability on slower surfaces. Sidra acknowledged after the match that the team needed to target the stumps more and reduce opportunities for batters to free their arms. What's Next The third and final ODI will determine the series winner, with both teams now aware of each other's strengths and weaknesses. Pakistan will look to improve their bowling plans, particularly against Sri Lanka's deep batting lineup. The decider is scheduled to be played at the same venue, with the hosts hoping to carry their batting momentum into the finale.