Sri Lanka has named a 17-member women’s squad for the upcoming ODI tri-series against India and South Africa. The matches will take place at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo from April 27 to May 11. Experienced all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu will lead the team.
Each team will play four matches in the round-robin stage. The top two teams will face off in the final on May 11. The series is important as it helps all three teams prepare for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India.
Major changes in the Sri Lanka squad
Sri Lanka last played an ODI series earlier this year in New Zealand, where they lost 0-2. After that tour, the selectors made eight changes to the squad.
One of the most talked-about additions is Malki Madara. She is a medium pacer who had a strong T20I debut in New Zealand, taking 3 wickets for 14 runs. Her performance helped Sri Lanka win their only match on that tour.
Several experienced players are also returning to the squad. These include Vishmi Gunaratne, Nilakshi Silva, Hasini Perera, Piumi Wathsala, Dewmi Vihanga, Inoka Ranaweera, and Hansima Karunaratne.
Full Sri Lanka squad for the tri-series
Chamari Athapaththu (Captain)
Vishmi Gunaratne
Harshitha Samarawickrama
Nilakshi Silva
Kavisha Dilhari
Anushka Sanjeewani
Hasini Perera
Piumi Wathsala
Manudi Nanayakkara
Dewmi Vihanga
Inoka Ranaweera
Inoshi Fernando
Hansima Karunaratne
Rashmika Sewwandi
Malki Madara
Sugandika Kumari
Achini Kulasuriya
What this series means for Sri Lanka
This tri-series gives Sri Lanka a good chance to test new players while gaining match experience against strong teams. The selectors are hoping to find the best combination ahead of the World Cup.
India and South Africa are also expected to use this series to finalize their World Cup squads. Since all matches are being played at one venue, players will have to quickly adapt to the conditions in Colombo.
Insights from experts and players
Cricket analysts believe this is an important series for Sri Lanka. It allows the team to regroup after the losses in New Zealand and build confidence before the World Cup.
Chamari Athapaththu said the team is focused on improving the basics. She said the goal is not only to win but also to give young players a chance to learn and perform.
Match schedule and format
The tri-series will follow a round-robin format. Each team will play four matches. The top two teams will then play in the final.
Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Dates: April 27 to May 11, 2025
Final: May 11, 2025
The pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium usually supports spin bowlers. Teams with good spinners may have an edge, especially in the later matches.
Building toward the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup
The 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup will be held in India. This means that conditions in Colombo will be similar to what players can expect during the tournament.
For Sri Lanka, this is a chance to bounce back and show they can compete with top teams. India will try to build momentum before hosting the World Cup. South Africa will test their pace attack in subcontinent conditions.
