Chamari Athapaththu Makes History in Women’s T20I Cricket
On March 18, 2025, the third and final T20I match between the New Zealand and Sri Lanka women’s cricket teams at the University Oval in Dunedin became a rain-affected encounter, culminating in a washout. However, amidst the disappointment, Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapaththu made history by becoming only the third captain in women’s cricket to lead her side in 100 T20 internationals (T20Is).
A Historic Milestone
The match, which was halted after just over 14 overs with New Zealand at 101/3, served as a significant occasion for Athapaththu. During the toss, New Zealand captain Suzie Bates presented Athapaththu with a special cap to commemorate this remarkable achievement. The milestone positions Athapaththu alongside two other distinguished captains in women’s T20I history: India’s Harmanpreet Kaur, who leads with 123 matches as captain, and Australia’s Meg Lanning, who has also captained 100 T20Is.
Most Matches as Captain in Women’s T20Is:
- Harmanpreet Kaur (India): 123 matches (2012-2024)
- Chamari Athapaththu (Sri Lanka): 100 matches (2014-2025)
- Meg Lanning (Australia): 100 matches (2014-2023)
Athapaththu’s leadership journey began in 2014, and her captaincy has been characterized by resilience and skill, qualities that have led Sri Lanka through numerous challenges in women’s cricket. As she equaled Lanning’s record, Athapaththu has an opportunity to surpass the Australian great, who has since retired from international cricket.
Series Overview
The T20I series ended in a 1-1 tie after the first two matches. Sri Lanka won the opener with standout performances from Athapaththu and debutant Madara. New Zealand leveled the series in the second T20I held in Christchurch. Though the third match did not yield a result, it highlighted the fierce competition between these two teams.
Even though New Zealand dominated the preceding ODI series with a 2-0 victory, Sri Lanka’s impressive fightback in the T20 format has raised hopes for their performance in the upcoming ODI World Cup set to take place in India later this year.
Looking Ahead
As Sri Lanka prepares for the ODI World Cup, Athapaththu’s leadership and experience will be vital. The team’s strong performance against New Zealand indicates a growing competitiveness in women’s cricket, promising exciting matches ahead. Meanwhile, the White Ferns will be looking forward to the return of their star players—Sophie Devine, Amelia Kerr, and Lea Tahuhu—as they gear up for three T20Is against Australia.
Conclusion
Chamari Athapaththu’s 100 T20I matches as captain mark a significant chapter in women’s cricket history. Her leadership exemplifies dedication and excellence, setting a standard for future captains. As women’s cricket continues to gain traction globally, milestones such as these not only inspire upcoming players but also contribute to the sport’s growing narrative. Athapaththu’s achievements remind us of the hard-fought battles and the relentless spirit that characterize women’s cricket today, setting the stage for future generations.
