Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team is set to return to the ICC Women’s World Cup stage after an eight-year absence, and the spotlight shines brightly on their inspirational captain, Chamari Athapaththu. The 2025 edition, co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India, carries added significance for the island nation, which has long awaited the opportunity to showcase its cricketing revival on the global stage. Athapaththu’s leadership, combined with a group of talented young players, represents a blend of experience and promise that could redefine Sri Lanka’s future in women’s cricket.
At 35, Chamari Athapaththu remains the heartbeat of Sri Lankan cricket. Known globally for her attacking batting style and ability to take on the best bowlers, she has often shouldered the responsibility of carrying her team through difficult matches. Her remarkable innings of 195 against South Africa several years ago remains one of the greatest individual performances in the women’s game, and she continues to inspire teammates with both her skill and determination. For this campaign, Athapaththu’s primary goal is to guide Sri Lanka into the semi-finals for the first time, a target that has become a rallying point for the squad.
The team’s journey back to the World Cup has been defined by resilience and progress. After missing the 2022 edition in New Zealand, Sri Lanka invested heavily in its domestic structure, bringing through a new generation of players who have already made their mark in international cricket. Their victory in the 2024 Women’s T20 Asia Cup and competitive performances in bilateral series built confidence and created momentum heading into the tournament. The squad’s composition reflects a careful balance of seasoned campaigners and youthful talent, giving them depth across both batting and bowling.
Among the emerging stars is Vishmi Gunaratne, a young batter who has scored crucial runs against higher-ranked teams. Her ability to build innings and handle pressure makes her a vital partner to Athapaththu at the top. Harshitha Samarawickrama, another exciting talent, has shown consistency in the middle order, while all-rounders such as Dewmi Vihanga and Kaveesha Dilhari bring versatility to the side. With spinners like Inoka Ranaweera and Piumi Wathsala expected to thrive in subcontinent conditions, Sri Lanka’s bowling attack has the tools to trouble opponents.
Familiarity with home conditions will also be an asset. The team is scheduled to play the majority of their matches in Colombo, where Athapaththu and her teammates are well-versed in reading pitches that can assist spinners while also testing batters with variable bounce. The support of passionate local fans will add to the team’s confidence, creating an atmosphere that could lift performances when it matters most.
For Sri Lanka, this World Cup is more than just a competition; it is an opportunity to re-establish themselves as a respected force in women’s cricket. Athapaththu’s leadership, both on and off the field, provides the anchor around which younger players can express themselves. The semi-final dream remains ambitious, but it reflects the hunger and belief now instilled in the squad.
As the tournament begins, Sri Lanka’s campaign under Chamari Athapaththu is poised to capture attention. Whether through the explosive batting of their captain, the promise of their youngsters, or the collective fight of the team, Sri Lanka will look to leave a lasting mark on the 2025 Women’s World Cup.
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