Sri Lanka has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming Women's T20 Asia Cup, set to take place in Dubai later this month. The selection committee has made three adjustments to the side that competed in the home T20I series against Pakistan last month, aiming to bolster the team's chances as they prepare to defend their continental title.
Among the notable inclusions is right-arm fast bowler Mithali Ayodhya, who returns to the national setup. Ayodhya, known for her distinctive slingy bowling action, previously represented Sri Lanka at the T20 World Cup and was the team's second-highest wicket-taker during the 12-team tournament held in England this past June. She missed the recent bilateral series against Pakistan but has now been recalled to the squad.
The team also features a maiden T20I call-up for leg-spin all-rounder Dewmi Vihanga. While Vihanga has already represented Sri Lanka in 12 ODIs, including two matches against Pakistan last month, this marks her first opportunity in the T20I format. She previously demonstrated her potential by claiming eight wickets during the Women's National Super League earlier this year. Additionally, seamer Chethana Vimukthi, who was part of the ODI squad during the recent Pakistan series, has been recalled to the T20I side.
To accommodate these changes, the selectors have moved on from seam-bowling all-rounder Rashmika Sewwandi, seamer Malki Madara, and left-arm spinner Nimasha Meepage. The squad continues to be led by captain Chamari Athapaththu, with Harshitha Samarawickrama serving as the vice-captain.
The roster retains young talent such as 17-year-old Sanjana Kavindi, who impressed during her debut against Pakistan by scoring 66 runs across two matches at a strike rate of 157.14. Imesha Dulani, who recently became only the second woman to record a T20I century for Sri Lanka, also maintains her position. The batting lineup is further supported by Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, and Nilakshika Silva, while Kaushini Nuthyangana is designated as the sole wicketkeeper in the group.
Sri Lanka, who claimed the Asia Cup title by defeating India in the 2024 final in Dambulla, will begin their title defense in Group B alongside Bangladesh, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates. Their campaign is scheduled to open with a match against the UAE on August 29.
The full squad consists of Chamari Athapaththu (capt), Harshitha Samarawickrama (vice-capt), Imesha Dulani, Sanjana Kavindi, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Hasini Perera, Kaushini Nuthyangana (wk), Dewmi Vihanga, Sugandika Kumari, Chamudi Praboda, Chethana Vimukthi, Kawya Kavindi, and Mithali Ayodhya.
