Sri Lanka’s women’s team has unveiled a carefully balanced T20I squad blending experience and youth, as the tour of India becomes a crucial testing ground on the road to the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka have officially announced a 15 member squad for their upcoming five match Women’s T20 International series against India, a tour that carries significant importance as part of their long term preparation for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England.
Chamari Athapaththu will continue to captain the side, bringing her experience and leadership into a demanding series against one of the strongest teams in women’s cricket. Senior batter Harshitha Samarawickrama has been appointed vice captain, reinforcing stability in the middle order and leadership group. The series is expected to offer Sri Lanka valuable match exposure as they refine combinations, assess player roles, and adapt to high pressure conditions ahead of the global tournament.
One of the standout selections is 17 year old ambidextrous spinner Shashini Gimhani, who makes her return to the national setup for the first time since August 2024. Her inclusion signals the selectors’ interest in expanding Sri Lanka’s spin options, especially against strong batting lineups. Another notable addition is Nimesha Madushani, who has earned her maiden call up, reflecting Sri Lanka Cricket’s intention to invest in emerging talent during this crucial phase.
The squad reflects a deliberate balance between proven performers and young prospects. Experienced players such as Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, and Nilakshika De Silva are expected to play key roles in anchoring the batting and providing consistency throughout the tour. At the same time, the presence of younger players offers depth and flexibility as the team experiments with combinations.
The five match Women’s T20I series will begin on December 21 in Visakhapatnam, which will also host the second and third matches. The final two games of the series will be played in Thiruvananthapuram. The tour is expected to challenge Sri Lanka both tactically and mentally, offering a clear benchmark of where the team stands in its World Cup build up.
Sri Lanka T20I Squad
Chamari Athapaththu (c), Harshitha Samarawickrama (vc), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Nilakshika De Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Imesha Dulani, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Malsha Shehani, Inoka Ranaweera, Shashini Gimhani, Nimesha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Rashmika Sewwandi, Malki Madara.
