Sri Lanka will begin their title defence at the Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 with expectations high after Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed a 15-member squad for the tournament, scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates from August 28 to September 13.
Defending champions Sri Lanka will once again be led by experienced all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu, with Harshitha Samarawickrama named vice-captain.
Sri Lanka made history in the previous edition by winning their maiden Women’s Asia Cup title in 2024, defeating India by eight wickets in the final in Dambulla. Athapaththu played a starring role in that triumph and was named Player of the Tournament.
Two years on, Sri Lanka face a different challenge. Having established themselves as Asian champions, they will now look to prove that their 2024 success was the beginning of a sustained period of excellence in women’s cricket.
The squad combines experienced internationals with promising young talent. Alongside Athapaththu and Harshitha are Imesha Dulani, Sanjana Kavindi, Vishmi Gunarathne, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Hasini Perera and wicketkeeper Kaushini Nuthyangana.
The bowling unit features Sugandika Dassanayaka, Chamudi Praboda, Chethana Vimukthi, Kawya Kavindi, Dewmi Vihanga and Mithali Ayodya, giving Sri Lanka a balanced squad with options across both departments.
One of the major talking points heading into the tournament will be the continued development of Imesha Dulani. She enters the Asia Cup in confident form after scoring an unbeaten 101 against Pakistan on July 31, becoming only the second Sri Lankan woman to score a T20I century after Athapaththu.
Dulani’s ability to provide an explosive start could prove particularly important in the UAE, where Sri Lanka will need to adapt quickly to unfamiliar conditions and maintain a strong balance between aggressive batting and disciplined bowling.
With the defending champions aiming to retain their crown, Sri Lanka’s campaign will be closely watched as they seek to strengthen their position among the leading teams in Asian women’s cricket.
