Chamari Athapaththu, Sri Lankan women’s cricketer, won’t play in the Ireland T20I. She’s busy playing for the Oval Invincibles in the Women’s Hundred according to ESPNcricinfo. Athapaththu will be in all group-stage games, with the last one on August 14. The Ireland T20Is are slotted for August 11 and 13. Still, she’ll return to the Sri Lankan team for the ODI series. The series, starting August 16, is part of the 2022-2025 ICC Women’s Championship cycle.
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Sri Lanka vs Ireland T20I: Impact of Athapaththu’s Absence
The team will feel Athapaththu’s absence deeply, given her status from the Women’s Asia Cup 2024. Her batting skills and leadership will be a missed in the T20I series. However, this shakes up the lineup, giving junior squad members a big chance to shine. Harshitha Samarawickrama, the previous vice-captain, might just take the helm in Athapaththu’s place. Going forward, her lead will key to keeping up our team’s energy.
Nuthyangana’s Inclusion: Strengthening the Squad
Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup-winning team gets a new player, wicketkeeper Kaushini Nuthyangana. She hasn’t played in ODI. Nonetheless, Kaushini is a solid support for usual wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewani. Bringing her into the team makes it stronger. Especially right now when key athlete Athapaththu isn’t playing.
Key Players to Watch in Sri Lanka vs Ireland T20I
Without Athapaththu, Vishmi Gunaratne and Harshitha Samarawickrama need to steady the batting team. Gunaratne, just 18, racked up 416 runs in 17 T20I games in 2024. Samarawickrama’s performance in the Asia Cup final makes her vital for the middle order. Also, Kavisha Dilhari, a spin bowling all-rounder, and a key for team balance. She showed batting potential with an unbeaten 30 runs from 16 balls versus India.
Potential Uncertainties and Solutions
There may be question marks after the three lead batters. Yet, Hasini Perera, Nilakshika Silva, and Anushka Sanjeewani have shown up strongly in the past year. They will need rise to the occasion without Athapaththu. Nuthyangana, probably a back-up batter.
Bowling Options: A Balanced Attack
With a mix of four main spinners and three seamers, the Sri Lankan team has a versatile bowling lineup. These players can tackle any pitch or opposing team plans flexibly. However, their bowlers need to be at the top of their game.
Sri Lanka Squad for the Ireland T20I Tour
- Chamari Athapaththu (capt)
- Vishmi Gunaratne
- Harshitha Samarawickrama
- Hasini Perera
- Kavisha Dilhari
- Nilakshi de Silva
- Anushka Sanjeewani
- Sugandika Kumari
- Udeshika Prabodhani
- Achini Kulasuriya
- Inoshi Priyadharshani
- Kawya Kavindi
- Sachini Nisansala
- Shashini Gimhani
- Ama Kanchana
- Kaushini Nuthyangana
Looking Ahead: ODIs and the 2022-2025 ICC Women’s Championship
After the T20I series, Athapaththu is set to regroup with the squad for the ODIs. These are key for Sri Lanka’s rank in the 2022-2025 ICC Women’s Championship. Her comeback will strengthen the team, with her well-needed expertise and guidance. The ODIs will serve as an extra chance for Sri Lanka. Furthermore, highlighting their rising skill in women’s cricket.
MORE: Sri Lanka’s Batting Collapse Against India
Conclusion
Losing Athapaththu in Ireland T20I series tour is a hurdle for the team. Nevertheless, it paves the way for new talents to shine. Nuthyangana’s addition and a well-rounded team keeps Sri Lanka strong. The series is a trial of patience and strength, a competitive atmosphere.