Sri Lanka Women’s Captain Athapaththu Focuses on Power-Hitting Under Coach Jamie Siddons
Synopsis
Sri Lanka Women’s captain Chamari Athapaththu emphasizes the team’s dedication to enhancing their power-hitting skills under the new coach Jamie Siddons as they embark on a crucial series in Bangladesh, aiming for direct qualification for the ODI World Cup.
Key Takeaways
Chamari Athapaththu emphasizes power-hitting development.
New coach Jamie Siddons aims to elevate team performance.
The series in Bangladesh is critical for World Cup qualification.
Experienced players provide stability amidst injuries.
Women’s cricket in Sri Lanka is evolving positively.
Colombo, April 17 (NationPress) The captain of Sri Lanka Women’s cricket team, Chamari Athapaththu, has highlighted the squad’s commitment to enhancing their power-hitting capabilities under the guidance of new head coach Jamie Siddons as they set off for a pivotal three-match ODI and T20 series in Bangladesh, starting on April 20.
Athapaththu emphasized the significance of this tour, as it presents an opportunity to earn crucial points that could enable Sri Lanka to avoid the risk of qualifying playoffs for the upcoming ODI World Cup.
“We’ve dedicated ourselves to strengthening our batting and boosting our power-hitting skills under the new coach in preparation for the World Cup. This series is critically important for us to secure direct qualification without needing to face playoffs,” she stated in a release by Sri Lanka Cricket.
Reflecting on the advancements in women’s cricket during her leadership, Athapaththu expressed pride in the remarkable progression from its modest origins.
“I am proud to say that women’s cricket here has reached a stable position compared to what it was before I assumed the role. Young players have emerged, stepping up to further elevate the game,” she remarked.
She underscored that the hiring of Australian coach Jamie Siddons represents a significant milestone in the team’s evolution.
“The arrival of Jamie Siddons is a monumental step for women’s cricket, propelling us to the next level,” Athapaththu noted.
The skipper also addressed the absence of seasoned batter Vishmi Gunaratne, who is sidelined due to injury, labeling it unfortunate but expressing confidence in her replacement.
Athapaththu further acknowledged the ongoing support from Sri Lanka Cricket and former players in advancing the women’s game, alongside the coaching staff’s dedication in transforming the team into a formidable unit.
The ODI matches against Bangladesh are scheduled to take place in Rajshahi on April 20, 22, and 25, with T20Is set for April 28, 30, and May 2 at Sylhet.
Athapaththu will lead the team in both formats, supported by experienced players such as Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nilakshika Silva, and Inoka Ranaweera, alongside several promising talents.
Point of View
The focus on power-hitting and strategic coaching changes in Sri Lanka Women’s cricket reflects a growing commitment to improving competitiveness on the international stage. The team’s efforts signify a potential evolution in women’s cricket in Sri Lanka.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the upcoming series against Bangladesh?
The series is crucial for Sri Lanka to earn points that may help them avoid qualifying playoffs for the ODI World Cup.
Who is the new head coach of Sri Lanka Women’s cricket team?
The new head coach is Jamie Siddons, who aims to enhance the team’s batting strength.
What challenges is the team facing ahead of the series?
The team is coping with the absence of experienced batter Vishmi Gunaratne due to injury.
When are the ODI matches scheduled?
The ODI matches will be held on April 20, 22, and 25 in Rajshahi.
What are the key players in the Sri Lanka Women’s team?
Key players include Chamari Athapaththu, Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nilakshika Silva, and Inoka Ranaweera.
