Sri Lanka Unveil T20 World Cup 2026 Squad – Sri Lanka Announces Squad for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026

A New Chapter for Sri Lanka Women

With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, excitement is building as Sri Lanka reveals a balanced and competitive squad. The selection process has emphasized a strategic blend of seasoned international veterans and promising young athletes, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly contested tournament in England and Wales.

Leadership and Experience

At the heart of the team is the legendary all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu, who once again steps up to lead her country. Her appointment as captain brings not only tactical acumen but also an immense amount of experience. Remarkably, Athapaththu’s participation in this tournament marks her appearance in all ten editions of the Women’s T20 World Cup, a testament to her longevity and dedication to the sport.

A Balanced Roster

The selectors have opted for a dynamic lineup. Key performers such as Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunarathne, and Kaveesha Dilhari remain central to the team’s strategy. However, the squad also highlights a forward-thinking approach by including younger talents like Kaushini Nuthyangana, Shashini Gimhani, and Mithali Ayodhya. This inclusion serves a dual purpose: strengthening the bench and providing high-pressure international experience to the next generation of Sri Lankan stars.

The Full Squad:

• Chamari Athapaththu (c)
• Hasini Perera
• Vishmi Gunarathne
• Harshitha Samarawickrama
• Imesha Dulani
• Nilakshika Silva
• Kaveesha Dilhari
• Hansima Karunarathne
• Kaushini Nuthyangana
• Sugandika Dassanayaka
• Nimasha Madushani
• Shashini Gimhani
• Kawya Kavindi
• Malki Madara
• Mithali Ayodhya

Preparing for the Group of Death

Sri Lanka faces a steep climb in Group B, where they are set to clash with cricketing powerhouses England, New Zealand, and the West Indies. The road to the semi-finals will undoubtedly be challenging, but the squad remains focused on their opening test. The campaign officially kicks off on June 12 at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham, where they will face the hosts, England. This encounter is expected to be a stern test, particularly as the local conditions in the UK often favor seam-heavy bowling attacks.

To ensure they are match-ready, the team has scheduled two vital warm-up fixtures. They will first test their mettle against Pakistan on June 6, followed by a match against the Netherlands on June 9, both taking place in Derby.

A Milestone for Match Officials

In a significant development for the tournament, the ICC has confirmed that an all-female panel of match officials will preside over the T20 World Cup. This move highlights a continued commitment to gender equality in officiating, following the success of similar initiatives in previous ICC events. The tournament will utilize 14 umpires and four match referees to oversee the 33 matches scheduled throughout the event.

Prominent names on the officiating panel include the experienced Claire Polosak, who is set to officiate in her sixth Women’s T20 World Cup, alongside veteran umpires Jacquline Williams and Kim Cotton, both marking their fifth tournament. The inclusion of rising talents like Candace La Borde, Gayathri Venugopalan, Kerrin Klaaste, and Shathira Jakir Jesy—following their strong performances during the 2025 ODI World Cup—adds further depth to a highly qualified and diverse officiating team.

Looking Ahead

While external observers may label the Sri Lankan side as underdogs given their tough group draw, the team is entering the tournament with a clear goal: to defy expectations. With a blend of tactical leadership from Athapaththu and the energy of a younger core, Sri Lanka is poised to make a significant impact on the international stage. As cricket fans turn their eyes to Birmingham this June, the focus will be on whether this balanced squad can overcome the odds and produce the kind of competitive cricket that defines the T20 format.