Pacers Mithali Ayodhya and Chethana Vimukthi, along with off-spin bowling all-rounder Dewmi Vihanga, have been recalled to Sri Lanka's 15-member squad for the Women's Asia Cup 2025, to be held in the UAE from 28 August to 13 September. The trio's return marks a notable shift from Sri Lanka's recent T20I series selection as the defending champions gear up to defend their continental title.

Who's In and Who's Out

The three returning players were absent from Sri Lanka's T20I series against Pakistan in Hambantota, which the hosts won 2-1. Their recall comes at the expense of Nimasha Meepage, Malki Madara, and Rashmika Sewwandi, who drop out of the squad for the continental event. The changes suggest a deliberate tactical recalibration ahead of a tournament where Sri Lanka carry the weight of expectation as champions.

Squad Leadership and Group Stage Draw

Seasoned batting all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu will captain the side, with batter Harshitha Samarawickrama named vice-captain. Sri Lanka have been placed in Group B alongside Bangladesh, hosts UAE, and tournament debutants Indonesia. Their group-stage campaign opens against the UAE on 29 August, followed by a clash with Indonesia on 2 September, and concludes with a marquee encounter against Bangladesh on 6 September.

Tournament Format and Venue

All matches will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in T20I format. The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for 10 and 11 September, with the final set for 13 September. This is the 10th edition of the Women's Asia Cup and the first time the tournament is being staged in the UAE.

Defending Champions with History to Protect

Sri Lanka's title credentials are formidable. In the 2024 final, they stunned seven-time champions India to claim their maiden Women's Asia Cup title on home soil in Dambulla. That victory ended India's long dominance of the competition and announced Sri Lanka as a genuine force in women's T20 cricket in Asia. Notably, this will be the first time Sri Lanka defend a Women's Asia Cup title — a new chapter in their cricketing history.

Full Squad

Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Imesha Dulani, Sanjana Kavindi, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama (vice-captain), Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Hasini Perera, Kaushini Nuthyangana (wicketkeeper), Dewmi Vihanga, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Chamudi Praboda, Chethana Vimukthi, Kawya Kavindi, and Mithali Ayodhya. All eyes will now turn to whether Athapaththu's side can become back-to-back Women's Asia Cup champions.