Sri Lanka Settles Squad for ICC Women’s World Cup Despite Poor ODI Record
Sri Lanka is gearing up to co-host the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup, marking a significant milestone for the island nation. While the team has faced challenges during the ICC Women’s ODI Championship cycle from 2022 to 2025, they have managed to secure direct qualification for the global event. Despite a lackluster ODI record in 2025, winning only two out of eight matches, Sri Lanka remains optimistic about their chances in the World Cup.
Led by veteran player Chamari Athapaththu, who is playing her third World Cup and potentially her last in the 50-over format, Sri Lanka’s squad boasts a mix of experience and young talent. The team’s batting lineup, featuring players like Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, and Harshitha Samarawickrama, shows promise. With the spin quartet led by Inoka Ranaweera and a pace attack spearheaded by Malki Madara, Sri Lanka is confident in their bowling options.
With a majority of their league games set to take place at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka is banking on their spinners to make an impact on the slow tracks. The team is determined to secure a spot in the semi-finals, a feat they have long aspired to achieve. Despite facing formidable opponents like India, Australia, and England in the league stage, Sri Lanka is hopeful of causing some upsets and progressing in the tournament.
One player to watch out for in the Sri Lankan squad is Dewmi Vihanga, a young offspinner who has shown promise since making her debut earlier this year. With 11 wickets in just four ODIs, Vihanga could play a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack during the World Cup. The team’s opening match against India is expected to set the tone for their campaign, with a victory potentially boosting their confidence and morale for the rest of the tournament.
While Sri Lanka did not participate in the 2022 Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, they are determined to make a mark in the upcoming edition. However, facing tough competition from top teams, Sri Lanka’s predicted finish in the World Cup remains uncertain. The team’s performance in the league stage matches, including fixtures against India, Australia, England, and other strong contenders, will be crucial in determining their fate in the tournament.
As fans eagerly await the start of the ICC Women’s World Cup, Sri Lanka’s squad is ready to showcase their skills and compete against the best teams in the world. With a blend of experience, talent, and determination, Sri Lanka is prepared to give their all on the field and strive for success in the global event. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from Sri Lanka’s journey in the ICC Women’s World Cup.
Key Players in Sri Lanka’s Squad
Aside from the seasoned Chamari Athapaththu, Sri Lanka’s squad for the ICC Women’s World Cup features some key players to watch out for. Hasini Perera, with her solid batting technique, has the potential to anchor the innings and build partnerships. Vishmi Gunaratne, known for her aggressive strokeplay, can be a game-changer in the middle order. Harshitha Samarawickrama, a young talent, brings energy and enthusiasm to the team’s lineup, providing a fresh perspective on the field.
The spin quartet led by Inoka Ranaweera will be crucial in stifling opposition batting lineups on the slow tracks of Sri Lanka. Their ability to control the game in the middle overs could be a deciding factor in key matches. Malki Madara, spearheading the pace attack, will look to provide early breakthroughs and maintain pressure on the opposition.
Challenges and Opportunities for Sri Lanka
While Sri Lanka’s ODI record leading up to the World Cup has been less than ideal, the team sees this as an opportunity to prove themselves on the global stage. The challenges they faced in the ICC Women’s ODI Championship cycle have only fueled their determination to perform well in the World Cup. The team’s resilience and fighting spirit could be their biggest strengths as they face tough competition in the tournament.
With the majority of their league games scheduled at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka will look to leverage their home advantage and the familiarity of the conditions. The support of the local crowd could also provide an extra boost to the team, motivating them to deliver their best on the field.
Expectations and Hopes for Sri Lanka’s Campaign
As Sri Lanka gears up for the ICC Women’s World Cup, the team and fans alike have high hopes for a successful campaign. While the road ahead may be challenging, the team’s goal of reaching the semi-finals remains a driving force for their performance. Sri Lanka’s potential to upset higher-ranked teams and make a mark in the tournament adds an element of excitement and unpredictability to their journey.
The opening match against India will be a crucial test for Sri Lanka, setting the tone for their World Cup campaign. A strong start could propel the team forward and instill confidence for the matches to come. As they face formidable opponents like Australia and England in the league stage, Sri Lanka’s ability to rise to the occasion and compete at a high level will be key to their success.
Looking Ahead to Sri Lanka’s Performance
As Sri Lanka prepares to co-host the ICC Women’s World Cup, all eyes will be on the team to see how they fare against the world’s best. With a blend of experience, talent, and determination, Sri Lanka has the potential to surprise many with their performance in the tournament. The team’s journey in the World Cup promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, with ups and downs that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Stay tuned for updates and highlights as Sri Lanka embarks on their quest for glory in the ICC Women’s World Cup. The team’s resilience, fighting spirit, and passion for the game will be on full display as they strive to make their mark on the global stage.
