The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) promises to captivate cricket fans with its exhilarating matches and exceptional talent. Scheduled from October 3 to 20, the tournament will take place at the renowned Dubai Cricket Stadium and Sharjah, providing a distinctive atmosphere for spectators. As the leading cricketing nations vie for the prestigious title, the UAE’s challenging playing conditions will put every team’s skills to the test. With 10 teams competing in a total of 23 matches, this event is set to be a thrilling showcase of women’s cricket excellence.

Sri Lanka waiting in with all readiness

Sri Lanka are gearing up for the 2024 edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup, set to commence on October 3 in the UAE. Under the leadership of Chamari Athapaththu, who is not only the captain but also a key all-rounder, the team aims to make a significant impact in the tournament.

The Sri Lankan squad boasts a mix of experience and youth, featuring players like:

• Chamari Athapaththu (Captain): A seasoned player known for her explosive batting and precise off-spin bowling, Athapaththu is currently ranked fifth among T20 all-rounders. Her leadership will be crucial, especially after leading Sri Lanka to their inaugural Asia Cup title recently.
• Harshitha Madhavi: A talented batter who has shown promise in recent matches, including a strong performance during Sri Lanka’s tour of Ireland.
• Vishmi Gunaratne: An emerging star, Gunaratne has been pivotal in the batting lineup and recently scored a century against Ireland in ODIs.
• Inoka Ranaweera and Udeshika Prabodhani: Both are experienced bowlers who can play vital roles with their skills in crucial match situations.

Sri Lanka’s match schedule and key challenges

Sri Lanka’s campaign will kick off against Pakistan on October 3 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. This match will be critical as it sets the tone for their tournament run. Following this, they face other formidable teams, including defending champions Australia on October 5.

The UAE’s playing conditions will present unique challenges. The pitch is known for being spin-friendly, which could favour Sri Lanka’s bowling strategy if executed well. However, adapting to the heat and humidity will be essential for maintaining performance levels throughout the tournament.

Also READ: Team India’s best XI for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Sri Lanka’s best XI for the global event:

1. Chamari Athapaththu
   • Role: Captain and All-rounder
   • Expectation: As the captain and leading run-scorer, Athapaththu is expected to anchor the batting order while also contributing with her off-spin bowling.
   • Strengths: Exceptional batting ability, experience in high-pressure situations, and strategic leadership. She has been in outstanding form, scoring 675 runs in T20Is in 2024.
2. Anushka Sanjeewani
   • Role: Wicketkeeper-Batter
   • Expectation: Sanjeewani is expected to provide stability at the top of the order and capitalize on powerplay overs.
   • Strengths: Quick scoring ability and adeptness behind the stumps, making her a dual threat.
3. Harshitha Madhavi
   • Role: Top-order Batter
   • Expectation: Madhavi is anticipated to build a solid foundation for the innings with her consistent batting.
   • Strengths: Strong technique and ability to rotate the strike, crucial for setting up partnerships.
4. Nilakshika de Silva
   • Role: Middle-order Batter
   • Expectation: De Silva is expected to stabilize the innings during middle overs and accelerate towards the end.
   • Strengths: Ability to play spin well and adapt to different match situations.
5. Inoka Ranaweera
   • Role: Bowling All-rounder
   • Expectation: Ranaweera is expected to contribute with both bat and ball, particularly in the spin department.
   • Strengths: Effective left-arm orthodox spin and handy lower-order batting.
6. Hasini Perera
   • Role: Middle-order Batter
   • Expectation: Perera is expected to provide aggressive batting in the middle overs, targeting bowlers.
   • Strengths: Power-hitting capabilities and experience in chasing targets.
7. Kavisha Dilhari
   • Role: All-rounder
   • Expectation: Dilhari is anticipated to provide depth in both batting and bowling, especially in critical phases of the game.
   • Strengths: Versatile player who can change the game with both bat and ball.
8. Sachini Nisansala
   • Role: Bowler
   • Expectation: Nisansala is expected to lead the bowling attack alongside spinners, targeting early breakthroughs.
   • Strengths: Fast-medium bowling with an ability to swing the ball.
9. Vishmi Gunaratne
   • Role: Top-order Batter
   • Expectation: Gunaratne is expected to make quick runs at the top and set a positive tone for the innings.
   • Strengths: Aggressive stroke play and good running between wickets.
10. Udeshika Prabodhani
    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Expectation: Prabodhani is expected to spearhead the pace attack and take early wickets.
    • Strengths: Experience in T20 cricket and ability to bowl in death overs effectively.
11. Achini Kulasuriya
    • Role: Bowler
    • Expectation: Kulasuriya is expected to support the spin attack and take crucial wickets during middle overs.
    • Strengths: Left-arm spin that can be effective on turning tracks, adding variety to the bowling lineup.

This lineup combines experience with emerging talent, positioning Sri Lanka as a competitive force in the upcoming global tournament. Each player brings unique strengths that will be vital for their success in this prestigious tournament.

Also READ: Australia’s best XI for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.