Buoyant as unbeaten Asian champs, Sri Lanka enter T20 WC fully poised
The Sri Lanka women’s cricket team, as unbeaten Asia Cup champions, are heading to the ICC Twenty20 Women’s World Cup in the UAE from October 3 to 20 with renewed confidence. This is a pivotal moment in the history of Sri Lanka women’s cricket.
In the Asia Cup, Sri Lanka showed their strength, defeating Bangladesh in the first round, overcoming Pakistan in the semi-finals, and toppling India in a thrilling final. This success has set a promising tone for their future in the ICC tournaments.
“The upcoming World Cup is crucial for us to make our mark on the world stage,” said captain Chamari Athapaththu.
“The Asia Cup was our best achievement in women’s cricket so far. We remained unbeaten, with all games being competitive and challenging.”
The Sri Lankan squad features a formidable top order, including reliable Harshitha Samarawickrama, confident young opener Vishmi Gunaratne, and dynamic Kavisha Dilhari, all supported by the experienced captain Athapaththu.
“Our team has a great mix of talent, with young players like Harshitha, Vishmi, and Kavisha ready to win games. We also have experienced players like Nilakshi de Silva and Anushka Sanjeewani. Our bowling lineup, led by Inoshi Priyadharshani, is also strong,” Athapaththu added.
In the World Cup, Sri Lanka is placed in Group ‘A’, facing tough opponents like Australia, Pakistan, India, and New Zealand. Group ‘B’ includes South Africa, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, and Scotland.
“We cannot take any team lightly in T20 cricket. Quick wickets or big shots can change a game instantly. Teams like India, Australia, and England have proven their strength over the years,” warned Athapaththu.
To adapt to the spin-friendly conditions in the UAE, experienced left-arm spinner Inoka Ranaweera, who has taken 91 T20 wickets from 82 matches, has joined the squad, replacing seamer Kawya Kavindi. Alongside Ranaweera, the spin department includes Inoshi Priyadharshani, Sugandhika Kumari, and allrounder Kavisha Dilhari.
Athapaththu expressed gratitude for the support from fans during the Asia Cup, noting that the atmosphere was electric, especially during the semi-finals and finals.
“This crowd support was crucial for women’s cricket in Sri Lanka and sends a powerful message,” she said.
“I am confident we will have strong support in the UAE, where many Sri Lankans live. The venues are excellent for cricket, and we are excited to play there.”
For Sri Lanka, this World Cup is a significant opportunity. Athapaththu recalled their last outing in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup held in South Africa, where they showed promise but fell short in close matches.
“This time, we arrive with confidence, having beaten top teams and winning the T20 Asia Cup. Our journey in T20 cricket has come a long way,” Athapaththu concluded.
| Sri Lanka squad for T20 World Cup 2024 | |
| Chamari Athapaththu (Capt), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilshari, Nilakshi de Silva, Hasini Perera, Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), Sachini Nisansala, Udeshika Prabodhani, Inoshi Priyadharshani, Achini Kulasuriya, Inoka Ranaweera, Shashini Gimhani, Ama Kanchana, Sugandika Kumari
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