Sri Lanka name fresh-faced squad for Pakistan Women's T20I series

Sri Lanka have announced their squad for the upcoming three-match Women's T20I series against Pakistan, opting for a measured reset following their campaign at the Women's T20 World Cup. While the selectors have retained the core of the squad, they have introduced three key changes to inject fresh talent into the setup ahead of the home series.

The biggest talking points are the maiden call-ups for Under-19 stars Sanjana Kavindi and Chamudi Praboda. The duo has impressed at the age-group level and will now have the opportunity to stake a claim in the senior side. Meanwhile, 19-year-old fast bowler Rashmika Sewwandi returns to the national setup after previously featuring for Sri Lanka.

Making way from the previous squad are Hansima Karunaratne, Mithali Ayodhya and Chethana Vimukthi. The latter had joined the squad as an injury replacement for Shashini Gimhani and misses out as Sri Lanka reshuffle their resources.

3 former players who can become India's assistant coach

Among the new faces, left-arm spinner Chamudi Praboda is expected to receive opportunities during the series, with Sri Lanka looking to strengthen their spin department. Sanjana Kavindi, a promising top-order batter, faces stiff competition for a place in the playing XI, as the hosts already possess a settled batting unit.

Sri Lanka will continue to bank on their experienced core, led by captain Chamari Athapaththu, who recently guided the side to a 2-1 ODI series victory. The batting lineup also features dependable performers Harshitha Samarawickrama, Hasini Perera and Vishmi Gunaratne, giving the team stability at the top.

The spin attack will once again be spearheaded by Kavisha Dilhari and Sugandika Kumari, with support from all-rounders Nilakshika Silva and Kaushini Nuthyangana. Seamers Kawya Kavindi and Malki Madara have also retained their places, ensuring continuity in the pace department.

Sri Lanka will be aiming to make the most of home conditions when they take on Pakistan in the three-match T20I series, which gets underway in Dambulla on Friday, July 31.

Chamari Athapaththu (capt), Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera, Sanjana Kavindi, Harshitha Samarawickrama (wk), Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nimasha Meepage, Chamudi Praboda, Sugandika Kumari, Malki Madara, Kawya Kavindi, Rashmika Sewwandi