Harshitha Samarawickrama to Lead Sri Lanka in Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy, Dilhari as Vice-Captain

Harshitha Samarawickrama has been appointed captain of Sri Lanka’s 14-member squad for the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy, with Kavisha Dilhari named as her vice-captain. The tournament is set to take place from November 12 to 25 in Ajman, United Arab Emirates, and Sri Lanka will begin their campaign against Ireland at the Ajman Cricket Ground on November 12.

Sri Lanka have been drawn into a group alongside Ireland, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, and the UAE. Notable senior players such as Chamari Athapaththu, Hansima Karunaratne, Anushka Sanjeewani, Nimasha Meepage, Kawya Kavindi, and Mithali Ayodhya are absent from this particular squad.

The 14-member group includes several players with experience in Sri Lanka Under-19 cricket. Sanjana Kavindi, aged 17, has impressively scored three fifty-plus runs in her last four T20 innings at that level, while Chamudi Praboda, also 17, is another young inclusion. Imesha Dulani and Vishmi Gunarathne are also part of the squad.

What does the age profile of this squad look like?

The squad boasts a notably young average age of 21. More experienced members include Hasini Perera, at 31, and Nilakshika Silva, at 35, while Sugandika Kumari, at 37, is the oldest player. The inclusion of teenagers like Sanjana Kavindi and Chamudi Praboda alongside players in their thirties creates a broad generational spread within the team.

Kaushini Nuthyangana has also been included, adding further depth to the batting options available to captain Samarawickrama.

How is the bowling unit of this Sri Lanka squad composed?

The bowling department offers a mix of disciplines. Kavisha Dilhari contributes off-breaks in addition to her batting skills, while Praboda and Kumari provide spin options. Nilakshika Silva is capable of bowling medium pace, adding variety to the attack. The seam bowling unit consists of three players: Rashmika Sewwandi, Chethana Vimukthi, and Malki Madara. Sathya Sandeepani is also part of the squad, enhancing the all-round bowling resources.

Sri Lanka squad for Emerging Nations Trophy

Harshitha Samarawickrama (capt), Kavisha Dilhari (vice-capt), Sanjana Kavindi, Imesha Dulani, Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sathya Sandeepani, Rashmika Sewwandi, Sugandika Kumari, Chamudi Praboda, Malki Madara, Chethana Vimukthi

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