Sri Lanka are seeking to rubber-stamp their status as ones to watch in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 when they take on Pakistan in the opening match of Group A.
Captain Chamari Athapaththu presided over an historic Asia Cup triumph in July which has fuelled the Lions’ belief that they can compete on the global stage.
The team has never previously reached the final four and face stiff competition in their pursuit of a knockout place this time with New Zealand, perennial challengers India and reigning champions Australia for company in the group stage.
Skipper Athapaththu says fans can expect a different Sri Lanka to the team of tournaments gone by, one battle-hardened by big scalps in recent times and a side ready to kick on starting with their opening clash against Pakistan in Sharjah.
She said: “During the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa last year, we showed signs of being a big tournament team and it was a good outing for us.
“We showed glimpses of what we were capable of. It was a good learning experience for all our players.
“Having beaten several top teams during the last 15-month period and winning the T20 Asia Cup, our team has come a long way in T20 cricket.
“The World Cup is going to be crucial for us to make our mark on the world stage. The Asia Cup was the best achievement within women’s cricket for Sri Lanka so far.”
Sri Lanka triumphed in both of their warm-up matches against Bangladesh and Scotland, opposition which Pakistan failed to beat in their final fixtures before the tournament.
Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana hopes her side can reverse the formbook, promising a more fearless brand of cricket as they too seek a maiden semi-final spot.
She said: “We were disappointed with our Asia Cup loss to Sri Lanka and are motivated to put that right.
“Pakistan has won one match at each of the last six T20 World Cups. This time, we aim to win as many as possible and see where that takes us.
“We know we have a tough group, but we've beaten teams like India and New Zealand recently, and playing against top sides boosts our confidence.
“Playing top teams requires giving your absolute best and doing so brings out the best in you.
“We are aiming to bring a different and more fearless approach to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup this year.”
(ICC)
