Sri Lanka have announced a balanced 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, placing their trust once again in veteran skipper Chamari Athapaththu as they prepare for a challenging campaign in England and Wales. The squad combines established international performers with a host of emerging talents, reflecting the team’s ambition to make a significant impact on the global stage.
With the tournament drawing closer, Sri Lanka will be eager to build on their recent success and carry winning momentum into one of the biggest events in women’s cricket.
Several players set for maiden World Cup appearance
One of the standout features of Sri Lanka’s selection is the inclusion of several players who are set to experience the Women’s T20 World Cup for the first time. Imesha Dulani, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara and Mithali Ayodhya have all earned places in the squad and are poised to make their World Cup debuts.
Their selection signals Sri Lanka’s commitment to developing the next generation of cricketers while maintaining a competitive balance within the team. The fresh faces will have the opportunity to learn alongside experienced campaigners and contribute on the biggest stage in women’s cricket.
Experienced core to support Chamari Athapaththu
While youth forms a major part of the squad, Sri Lanka have also retained a strong group of seasoned performers. Athapaththu will once again shoulder leadership responsibilities and remains the team’s most influential player with both bat and ball.
The captain will be supported by experienced names such as Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama and Nilakshika Silva. Meanwhile, all-rounders Kaveesha Dilhari and Vishmi Gunarathne are expected to play key roles as Sri Lanka look to compete against some of the world’s strongest teams.
The selectors have opted for a combination of experience and youthful enthusiasm, hoping the blend can help the side achieve greater consistency throughout the tournament.
Tough group stage awaits
Sri Lanka have been drawn in a competitive Group 2 alongside hosts England, defending champions New Zealand, West Indies, Ireland and Scotland.
Their campaign begins with a challenging opening clash against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on June 12. They will then take on New Zealand in Southampton on June 16 before facing West Indies and Ireland in Bristol on June 21 and June 23 respectively. Their final group-stage fixture will be against Scotland in Manchester on June 26.
Having never progressed beyond the group stage in the Women’s T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka will view the 2026 edition as a valuable opportunity to create history. With Athapaththu leading a talented mix of experience and youth, the island nation will be determined to challenge the tournament heavyweights and push for a place in the knockout rounds.
Sri Lanka squad for Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Shashini Gimhani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara and Mithali Ayodhya.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
