Left-arm spinner Inoka Ranaweera has been included in Sri Lanka’s squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, marking her return after being omitted from recent tournaments. The 38-year-old takes the place of 21-year-old seamer Kawya Kavindi, who has been dropped from the lineup.
Ranaweera’s inclusion comes as Sri Lanka prepares for a World Cup expected to feature spin-friendly pitches in the UAE. Despite not having a particularly impactful year in the shortest format, Ranaweera boasts an impressive record of 91 T20I wickets from 82 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 5.86.
Sri Lanka’s bowling options now feature a robust spin attack, including Inoshi Priyadharshani, Sugandika Kumari, and Kavisha Dilhari, alongside captain Chamari Athapaththu, who offers off-spin. However, the squad’s seam options are limited to Udeshika Prabodhani, Achini Kulasuriya, and Ama Kanchana.
On the batting front, Sri Lanka fields a formidable lineup, led by Athapaththu and bolstered by recent strong performances from Harshitha Samarawickrama and 18-year-old Vishmi Gunaratne. Their victory in the Asia Cup in July adds to their confidence as they aim for a top-four finish in the World Cup.
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The T20 World Cup is set to commence on October 3, with Sri Lanka placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand, and India.
Sri Lanka Squad for T20 World Cup 2024:
- Chamari Athapaththu (captain)
- Harshitha Samarawickrama
- Vishmi Gunaratne
- Kavisha Dilhari
- Nilakshi de Silva
- Hasini Perera
- Anushka Sanjeewani (wicketkeeper)
- Sachini Nisansala
- Udeshika Prabodhani
- Inoshi Priyadharshani
- Achini Kulasuriya
- Inoka Ranaweera
- Shashini Gimhani
- Ama Kanchana
- Sugandika Kumari
Travelling Reserve: Kaushini Nuthyangana
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