Ambidextrous spinner Shashini Gimhani in Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup squad – Shashini Gimhani Headlines Sri Lanka Women’s T20 World Cup Squad
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A New Generation Meets Experience
Sri Lanka Cricket has officially unveiled its 15-player squad for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup, which is set to commence in England on June 12. The selection committee has opted for a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting young talent, aiming to make a significant impact on the global stage. Among the standout inclusions are batter Vishmi Gunaratne, seamer Kawya Kavindi, and the remarkably talented 17-year-old ambidextrous wristspinner, Shashini Gimhani.
The Rise of Shashini Gimhani
Perhaps the most intriguing name on the team sheet is that of Shashini Gimhani. Having already made history as Sri Lanka’s youngest international cricketer when she debuted at the age of 15, the young spinner has already clocked seven T20 international appearances. Her ability to bowl with both arms offers a unique tactical advantage that could prove pivotal on English pitches. Her inclusion signals a clear commitment from the selectors to nurture high-ceiling prospects in the face of elite international competition.
Leadership and Strategic Changes
The squad will once again be led by the formidable Chamari Athapaththu. Her participation in this tournament marks a major milestone, as she prepares to represent her nation in her tenth T20 World Cup. Athapaththu remains the heart and soul of the side, providing both explosive batting power and the tactical acumen required to navigate a challenging group stage.
The announcement also confirmed some notable exclusions from the side that faced Bangladesh earlier this month. Rashmika Sewwandi, Dewmi Vihanga, and Inoka Ranaweera have been left out of the final selection, as the team management looks to refine its composition ahead of the tournament opener.
Tournament Path and Group Challenges
Sri Lanka has been drawn into a competitive Group 2 alongside England, New Zealand, West Indies, Ireland, and Scotland. The squad is scheduled to depart for England on June 3 to finalize their preparations. The tournament kicks off in spectacular fashion, with Sri Lanka facing the hosts, England, in the opening fixture at Edgbaston on June 12.
Following the opener, the team faces a grueling schedule as they travel across England:
- June 16: vs. New Zealand in Southampton
- June 21: vs. West Indies in Bristol
- June 23: vs. Ireland in Bristol
- June 26: vs. Scotland in Manchester
The top two teams from both Group 1 and Group 2 will advance to the knockout stages. The semi-finals are scheduled to be held at The Oval on June 30 and July 2, with the ultimate goal being the final at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 5.
Full Sri Lanka Squad
The depth of the squad reflects a tactical shift aimed at versatility in all three phases of the game. The full list of players traveling to England is as follows:
Chamari Athapaththu (capt), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Shashini Gimhani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, and Mithali Ayodhya.
As the countdown to June 12 begins, all eyes will be on whether the combination of Athapaththu’s veteran leadership and the youthful exuberance of players like Gimhani can propel Sri Lanka deep into the tournament.
