Sri Lanka arrive in Trivandrum staring at the prospect of the series slipping beyond reach, trailing 2–0 after the Vizag leg. Another defeat would effectively seal the contest, but captain Chamari Athapaththu made it clear that results are only one part of a larger rebuilding process. On the eve of the third T20I, Athapaththu spoke candidly about her team’s shortcomings and the road ahead.
Batting and Finishing: A Clear Weak Spot
Athapaththu did not shy away from identifying Sri Lanka’s biggest concern. “We need to improve our batting, especially in the middle order and in finishing games. Our power game is not strong enough for this format at the moment,” she said. The captain revealed that these issues have been repeatedly discussed within the group, adding: “These are the key areas we have been discussing as a batting unit… and we have made a few plans for tomorrow’s game.”
Reading the Trivandrum Conditions
On the surface at Trivandrum, Athapaththu felt conditions could aid her batters. “The conditions here are better compared to Sri Lanka. The pitches look very good for batting,” she noted, while admitting uncertainty over evening conditions. “Overall, I feel it is still a good batting surface.”
Bowling Under the Scanner
Sri Lanka’s bowling attack has struggled to slow India’s chases, something Athapaththu acknowledged frankly. “Yes, definitely we need to improve our bowling,” she said. While dew has played a role, the skipper was clear: “That is not an excuse… We need early wickets, especially in the powerplay, to put pressure on them.”
Backing Youngster Shashini Gimhani
Athapaththu was protective yet realistic about 16-year-old Shashini Gimhani. “She is very young and has a big future,” the skipper said. Emphasising simplicity, Athapaththu added: “I always tell her to play her natural game and not think too much… she just needs more experience.”
Respect for Harmanpreet Kaur
Speaking about her long-standing rivalry and friendship with Harmanpreet Kaur, Athapaththu said: “We are actually good friends… she is one of the best leaders India has had.” Recalling shared moments across tournaments, she added: “She manages situations and people extremely well. She is one of the best leaders I have seen.”
Learning from India and the WPL
Athapaththu credited the Women’s Premier League for India’s rise. “The WPL has helped India a lot,” she said, pointing out: “India already had a strong domestic structure, and now it is even better.”
Building Towards the World Cup
Despite immediate pressure, the Sri Lanka captain stressed long-term vision. “After the 50-over World Cup, the selectors decided to give opportunities to youngsters,” she explained, adding that upcoming tours and domestic competitions will help “build a good team for the T20 World Cup”.
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