Cricket Enthusiasts Rejoice: Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup Champions Strengthen Squad for Upcoming Tour
Colombo, 03-Aug-2024 – The victorious Sri Lankan women’s cricket team, fresh off their Asia Cup triumph, has announced their squad for the upcoming Ireland tour. While the absence of talismanic all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu, named Player of the Tournament in the Asia Cup 2024, will undoubtedly be felt, the team sees the introduction of a promising new wicketkeeper, Kaushini Nuthyangana, as the sole addition to the squad.
Athapaththu’s absence presents an opportunity for the younger members of the team to step up and showcase their skills. Harshitha Samarawickrama, the last designated vice-captain, could be in line to lead the side in Athapaththu’s absence, building on her Player-of-the-Match performance in the Asia Cup final.
The responsibility of the batting order will largely fall on the shoulders of 18-year-old sensation Vishmi Gunaratne, who has already amassed an impressive 416 runs in 17 matches in the women’s T20I format this year, and the experienced Samarawickrama. Spin-bowling all-rounder Kavisha Dilhari has also demonstrated her growing batting prowess, as evident from her blistering 30 off 16 balls against India last week.
“While the squad depth below the top three batters may raise some questions, the likes of Hasini Perera, Nilakshika Silva, and Anushka Sanjeewani have all showcased their ability to deliver exciting cameos in recent times.”
Nuthyangana’s inclusion as a backup wicketkeeper will also provide the team with additional options, as Sri Lanka do not possess another designated batting replacement for Athapaththu in the squad.
The bowling department remains a strength for the team, with four frontline spinners and three seamers ready to take the field. As the club cricket season continues in Chester le Street and fantasy club cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the team’s performance, all eyes will be on Sri Lanka’s ability to replicate their Asia Cup success in the upcoming Ireland tour.
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