Chamari Athapaththu Extends International Career Until 2023 ODI World Cup

Chamari Athapaththu Extends International Career Until 2023 ODI World Cup

Chamari Athapaththu, the enigmatic Sri Lankan cricket captain, has put an end to speculation about her international retirement, confirming her intention to lead her team until at least next year’s ODI World Cup.

Athapaththu, 34, has been a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket for over a decade, amassing an impressive record as both a batter and a leader. Her recent performances at the Asia Cup, where she emerged as the tournament’s leading run-scorer and guided her team to victory, have further cemented her status as one of the most influential players in the women’s game.

Despite hinting at a possible retirement in the past, Athapaththu has now clarified that she remains committed to representing Sri Lanka on the international stage. “Hopefully I’ll still play till the next 50-over World Cup,” she stated in a recent interview.

This announcement is a significant boost for Sri Lankan cricket, as Athapaththu’s experience and leadership will be invaluable in the team’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Bangladesh and the ODI World Cup in India next year.

Athapaththu’s decision to continue playing is a testament to her unwavering passion for the game and her desire to inspire the next generation of Sri Lankan cricketers. Her presence in the team will provide stability and guidance, while her exceptional batting skills will continue to be a major asset for Sri Lanka.

As Sri Lanka gears up for the challenges ahead, Chamari Athapaththu’s commitment to the national team is a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for both players and fans alike.

Sri Lanka's Athapaththu Shines in Asia Cup Semifinal Victory Over Pakistan

Sri Lanka’s Athapaththu Shines in Asia Cup Semifinal Victory Over Pakistan

Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu Guides Team to Asia Cup Final with Resolute Half-Century

In a thrilling encounter at Dambulla, Sri Lanka’s skipper Chamari Athapaththu led her team to a hard-fought three-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second semifinal of the Women’s Asia Cup. The win propelled Sri Lanka into the championship match against India, who had earlier defeated Bangladesh by 10 wickets.

Athapaththu, the tournament’s leading run-scorer, played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s triumph. Her well-timed 63 off 48 deliveries, studded with nine fours and a six, singlehandedly steered the Lankans towards the 141-run target. Her crucial partnership of 61 runs with Kalisha Dilhari (17 off 18 balls) for the third wicket provided Sri Lanka with a solid foundation.

Anushka Sanjeevani’s unbeaten 24 off 22 balls, including a four and a six, also played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s successful chase. The hosts reached the target of 141 for 7 in 19.5 overs, securing their place in the final.

Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by the experienced left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal, who claimed an impressive 4 wickets for 16 runs in her four overs. However, she lacked adequate support from her fellow bowlers, allowing Sri Lanka to overcome the challenge.

Earlier, Pakistan’s innings was anchored by useful contributions from Muneeba Ali (37), Gull Feroza (25), captain Nida Dar (23), and Fatima Sana (23 not out). Despite getting starts, none of them managed to convert their scores into more substantial ones, resulting in Pakistan posting a total of 140 for four in 20 overs.

Sri Lanka's Athapaththu Century Powers Team to T20 World Cup Qualifier Triumph

Sri Lanka’s Athapaththu Century Powers Team to T20 World Cup Qualifier Triumph

Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu led her team to a resounding 68-run victory over Scotland in the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Abu Dhabi, securing their place in Group A of the World Cup proper.

Athapaththu’s blistering 102 off 63 balls, studded with 13 fours and four sixes, propelled Sri Lanka to a formidable total of 169 for 5. She shared a crucial 106-run partnership with Nilakshika Silva (26*).

Scotland’s chase faltered early as they lost opener Saskia Horley to a run-out in the third over. Left-arm medium pacer Udeshika Prabodhani then struck twice in the fourth over, dismissing Sarah Bryce and Katherine Fraser to leave Scotland reeling at 13 for 3.

Sri Lanka’s spinners tightened the screws, with Priyanaz Chatterji (30) offering the only resistance. However, the Scottish batters struggled to keep up with the required run rate, eventually falling 68 runs short.

Prabodhani finished with impressive figures of 3 for 13, while fellow spinner Inoka Ranaweera claimed 1 for 13.

The victory marks a significant achievement for Sri Lanka, who will now face the likes of Australia, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan in Group A of the World Cup. Scotland, on the other hand, will be part of Group B alongside South Africa, England, West Indies, and Bangladesh.

Both Sri Lanka and Scotland had already secured their spots in the T20 World Cup proper after defeating UAE and Ireland, respectively, in the semifinals.

Chamari Athapaththu Soars to No. 1 in ICC ODI Batting Rankings

Chamari Athapaththu Soars to No. 1 in ICC ODI Batting Rankings

Chamari Athapaththu’s record-breaking performance in Sri Lanka’s thrilling ODI victory over South Africa has propelled her to the summit of the ICC’s batting rankings for women’s ODIs. Athapaththu’s unbeaten 195 in just 139 balls shattered several records, including the highest individual score in a successful ODI chase.

Chasing South Africa’s formidable total of 301 for 5, anchored by Laura Wolvaardt’s magnificent 184 not out, Sri Lanka chased down the target in a mere 44.3 overs. Athapaththu’s knock was a masterclass in power-hitting, as she smashed 22 fours and 5 sixes.

Her innings not only secured a remarkable victory for Sri Lanka but also earned her a career-high rating of 773 on the ICC table. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Athapaththu, who has consistently been among the top performers in women’s cricket.

Athapaththu’s rise to the top has been accompanied by the impressive performances of other batters. Wolvaardt, who had entered the top five in the previous rankings update, has moved up two more spots to third place. Hayley Matthews has also made significant strides, jumping seven spots to reach No. 11 after her match-winning knocks against Pakistan.

Among bowlers, Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal has made a notable ascent, moving up six places to enter the top 20. Her impressive returns of 2 for 38 and 1 for 36 against West Indies have earned her recognition as one of the most promising young spinners in the game.

The ICC rankings reflect the dynamic nature of women’s cricket, with players from various nations showcasing their exceptional skills. Athapaththu’s achievement is a testament to her unwavering determination and the growing strength of Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team.

Sri Lanka Women Aim for World Cup Semi-Finals, Athapaththu Sets Sights High

Sri Lanka Women Aim for World Cup Semi-Finals, Athapaththu Sets Sights High

Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team has set their sights on reaching the semi-finals of both the T20 and ODI World Cups, according to captain Chamari Athapaththu. The team has shown impressive form in recent months, winning T20I series against Bangladesh, England, and South Africa, and reaching the final of the Asian Games. They also won ODI series against Bangladesh and New Zealand and are in contention for automatic qualification for the 2025 ODI World Cup.

Athapaththu’s confidence stems from her team’s recent performances, including her own record-breaking 195 not out against South Africa. This innings not only marked the third-highest individual score in women’s ODIs but also led Sri Lanka to the highest successful chase in the format.

The team’s success is also attributed to the contributions of young players like Nilakshika Silva, who scored an unbeaten 50 against South Africa. Athapaththu believes that her team has the potential to achieve great things, especially if they continue to play with the same determination and skill.

However, Athapaththu is also aware of the challenges ahead. Sri Lanka must perform well against West Indies and Ireland to secure a top-five finish in the Women’s Championship table and qualify for the ODI World Cup. They must also navigate the T20 World Cup qualifiers in the UAE, where they are grouped with Thailand, Scotland, Uganda, and USA.

Despite the challenges, Athapaththu remains optimistic about her team’s chances. She is particularly excited about the prospect of seeing another Sri Lankan batter surpass her record score. She believes that such achievements can inspire the next generation of cricketers and help Sri Lanka become a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.

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