Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team is heading to the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup not by chance, but by proving their worth. While they unluckily missed out on the 2022 tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic canceling qualifiers in Zimbabwe, their spot in the current edition is a testament to their hard work and skill.
Their exceptional performance, securing a fifth-place finish in the ICC Women’s Championship 2022/23-25 with nine victories and 22 points, marks their highest ranking ever and guarantees them automatic entry into the prestigious competition.
This will be Sri Lanka’s seventh World Cup appearance, and playing as co-hosts alongside India brings a significant advantage. Five of their seven group stage matches will be held at the familiar R. Premadasa Stadium, providing them with invaluable home-ground comfort.
Under the inspiring captaincy of Chamari Athapaththu, the team has soared to new heights. They clinched the Women’s T20 Asia Cup last year and made it to the finals of a home tri-series against India, even securing a victory against the eventual champions.
Remarkably, despite her extensive experience and leadership in other formats, this 50-over World Cup will be the first time the 35-year-old star all-rounder leads her nation. Athapaththu guides a well-balanced squad featuring both seasoned players and exciting young talents. While her individual performances are often game-changing, the collective potential of the team suggests they can achieve even greater things.
The batting lineup will rely on the steady hands of Harshita Samarawickrama and Nilakshika de Silva. Adding crucial stability behind the wickets and as Athapaththu’s vice-captain is wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewani.
The squad also features several exciting World Cup debutants, such as Kavisha Dilhari and Dewmi Vihanga, eager to make their mark on the global stage.
Given the subcontinental pitches, which are renowned for favoring spin bowling, Sri Lanka’s squad is particularly strong in this department.
Veteran slow left-arm spinner Inoka Ranaweera, who captained Sri Lanka in the 2017 World Cup, offers a wealth of experience and tactical prowess. Her spin attack will be powerfully complemented by Athapaththu’s off-spin and Sugandika Kumari’s left-arm orthodox deliveries.
For pace, the team counts on the seasoned left-armer Udeshika Prabodhani for her new-ball expertise, alongside Achini Kulasuriya, known for her precision and control.
Armed with a blend of experience, a balanced team composition, and the significant boost of playing on home turf, Sri Lanka is geared up to convert their immense potential into a truly memorable World Cup performance.
The official squad includes: Chamari Athapaththu (Captain), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Imesha Dulani, Dewmi Vihanga, Piumi Wathsala, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Dasanayaka, Udeshika Prabodani, Malki Madara, and Achini Kulasuriya.
Here are Sri Lanka’s upcoming fixtures: September 30 vs. India (Guwahati); October 4 vs. Australia (Colombo); October 11 vs. England (Colombo); October 14 vs. New Zealand (Colombo); October 17 vs. South Africa (Colombo); October 20 vs. Bangladesh (Navi Mumbai); October 24 vs. Pakistan (Colombo).
The ICC Women’s 50-over World Cup will take place across India and Sri Lanka, running from September 30 to November 2.