A fresh look for the Sri Lankan women's side is on show for the upcoming Women's Emerging Nations Trophy in the UAE. Regular captain Chamari Athapaththu is not taking part in the tournament, which is scheduled to run from November 12 to 25. Harshitha Samarawickrama steps up to lead the 14-member squad, with Kavisha Dilhari named as her deputy.
Other players from the Asian Games squad missing the trip include Hansima Karunaratne, Anushka Sanjeewani, Nimasha Meepage, Kawya Kavindi and Mithali Ayodhya. Meanwhile, Sathya Sandeepani, Rashmika Sewwandi, Malki Madara and Chethana Vimukthi have earned places.
Youthful mix and experienced hands
Experience comes in the form of 37-year-old Nilakshika Silva, 35-year-old Sugandika Kumari, and 31-year-old Hasini Perera. Apart from this trio, the rest of the squad averages only 21 years old.
Among the youngsters are two 17-year-olds, Sanjana Kavindi and Chamudi Praboda. Kavindi comes into the squad in strong touch for Sri Lanka Under-19, having scored three fifties in her last four T20 innings.
Batting and bowling lineup
The batting department includes Imesha Dulani, Vishmi Gunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Hasini Perera, Nilakshika Silva, Sathya Sandeepani, Kavisha Dilhari, and skipper Harshitha Samarawickrama.
For the pace attack, selectors have picked Malki Madara, Chethana Vimukthi and Rashmika Sewwandi, with Sandeepani and Silva available for medium pace. Sugandika Kumari and Chamudi Praboda will handle spin alongside Dilhari's off breaks.
