Harshitha Samarawickrama is set to lead the Sri Lankan squad in the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy in Nepal from 12 to 25 November. With Chamari Athapaththu taking a break, Samarawickrama steps into the captaincy role, alongside deputy Kavisha Dilhari, hinting at the future direction of the team post-Athapaththu.
Joining Athapaththu on the sidelines from the Asian Games squad are Hansima Karunaratne, Anushka Sanjeewani, Nimasha Meepage, Kawya Kavindi, and Mithali Ayodhya. New inclusions to the squad include Sathya Sandeepani, Rashmika Sewwandi, Malki Madara, and Chethana Vimukthi, indicating a fresh look for the team.
Notably, this squad reflects a youthful contour, with only three players above 30: veterans Nilakshika Silva and Sugandika Kumari, aged 37 and 35 respectively, alongside 31-year-old Hasini Perera. The average age sits at 21, showcasing one of the youngest ensembles in the tournament.
The batting lineup remains robust, even without Athapaththu, with Samarawickrama leading. Promising talent Sanjana Kavindi, one of the squad’s two 17-year-olds alongside Chamudi Praboda, has shown impressive form at the Under-19 level with several notable scores. The batting contingent is rounded out by Imesha Dulani, Vishmi Gunarathne, Dilhari, Hasini, Nilakshika, Kaushini Nuthyangana, and Sandeepani.
On the bowling side, Sri Lanka has opted for three seamers: Madara, Vimukthi, and Sewwandi. Additionally, Sandeepani and Nilakshika offer medium pace options, supplemented by the spin skills of Kumari, Praboda, and Dilhari’s off breaks.
Sri Lanka Squad for Emerging Nations Trophy:
– Harshitha Samarawickrama (captain)
– Kavisha Dilhari (vice-captain)
– Sanjana Kavindi
– Imesha Dulani
– Hasini Perera
– Vishmi Gunarathne
– Nilakshika Silva
– Kaushini Nuthyangana
– Sathya Sandeepani
– Rashmika Sewwandi
– Sugandika Kumari
– Chamudi Praboda
– Malki Madara
– Chethana Vimukthi
