BIPIN DANI
Manudi Nanayakkara has made a remarkable journey to become the captain of the Sri Lankan U19 team for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Her story is one of dedication, natural talent and unwavering support from her family.
Her father, Priyankara Nanayakkara, in an exclusive chat with this Reporter, shared insights into his daughter’s cricketing journey. He expressed pride in Manudi’s accomplishments, highlighting how her passion for cricket began at a young age. “I must say that our only daughter, Manudi Dulansaa Nanayakkara, has reached this position through dedication and natural ability from a young age ” he said. Manudi’s early interest in cricket led her to train at the ODI Cricket Academy in Ratmalana from the age of 7. She later continued her education at Princess of Wales’ College in Moratuwa, where she played for the Under-13 and Under-19 cricket teams.
Manudi’s journey did not stop there. She received further training at the cricket academy of Ms. Hiruka Punandu and captained her college cricket team. Her consistent performance and leadership skills earned her a place in the Western Province squad and eventually, the national Under-19 team. Priyankara proudly mentioned, “Additionally, she participated in several international tours and was appointed as the captain of the national team in 2025, based on her skills.”
When asked whether the family expected Manudi to be selected as captain, Priyankara responded, “We expected her to be selected as captain based on her skills”.
“Both of us were employed at the Education Services Bank, but we are now retired”, he also shared some personal details, adding, “My wife’s name is Madhura Damayanthi. My wife was an Assistant Manager, and I was an Administrative Officer.”
Manudi’s appointment as captain is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and natural talent. The upcoming ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup tournament in Malaysia promises to be an exciting event, with 16 teams divided across four groups and 41 matches to be played over a 16-day period. As Manudi leads her team onto the field, her journey serves as an inspiration to many young cricketers aspiring to make their mark on the international stage.
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