In the dynamic world of women’s T20 International (T20I) cricket, a fresh wave of young cricketers is making their presence felt on the global stage. These rising stars have demonstrated exceptional skills in batting and bowling, proving that age is no barrier to achieving remarkable milestones. From Sri Lanka to Bangladesh, this new generation of talent has already made significant contributions to their national teams, showcasing the promise of even brighter futures. The following article profiles five of these young cricketers – Vishmi Gunaratne, Darcey Carter, Seshnie Naidu, Shorna Akhter, and Shashini Gimhani – who are redefining the future of women’s cricket through their outstanding performances and potential.
Vishmi Gunaratne: Steadfast Performer for Sri Lanka
Born on August 22, 2005, Vishmi Gunaratne is a 19-year-old right-hand top-order-batter for Sri Lanka. Gunaratne made her T20I debut on January 18, 2022, against Scotland, and quickly established herself as a dependable player. Over the course of the 2024 season thus far, from 19 T20Is, she amassed an impressive 447 runs, at an average of 29.80, with a strike rate of 102.05, and registered the highest of 73*. Gunaratne has become an invaluable asset to the Sri Lankan team, proving her abilities as both an anchor and aggressor. As one of the youngest players in international cricket, her composure and maturity on the field makes her a promising future leader for her team.
Darcey Carter: Scotland’s Rising All-Rounder
Darcey Carter, born on May 31, 2005, is another promising cricketer who has quickly made a name for herself in the women’s T20I arena. Aged 19, Carter is a right-hand batter and right-arm off-break bowler. She made her T20I debut on July 10, 2023, against Thailand, and in that short time, has already etched her name in the records. In T20Is, from 16 outings she has accumulated 335 runs and notched up two fifties, including the best of 54*, while from 14 innings has picked up 15 wickets, averaging 12.93 and maintaining an economy rate of 5.54. Her versatility as both a batter and a bowler make her an exciting player to watch, as she has the potential to dominate in multiple facets of the game. Carter’s ability to play under pressure and deliver in critical situations has impressed cricket enthusiasts, and as she gains more experience on the international stage, her potential to shape Scotland’s cricketing future seems inevitable.
Seshnie Naidu: South Africa’s Young Prodigy
Seshnie Naidu, born on January 5, 2006, is one of South Africa’s most exciting young cricketers. At just 18 years old, she is already making waves as a leg-break bowler. Naidu made her T20I debut on September 16, 2024, against Pakistan, marking her entry into international cricket with poise and confidence, dismissing Sadaf Shamas for her first international wicket and finished with figures of 1/25 (3). Known for her sharp leg-spin, she has quickly become a valuable asset to her team. While her international career is still in its infancy, her early performances have drawn comparisons to some of the best spinners in women’s cricket. With her debut still fresh, Naidu’s cricketing journey is one to keep an eye on as she continues to grow into her role and cement her place in the South African squad.
Shorna Akhter: Bangladesh’s All-Round Sensation
Shorna Akhter, born on January 1, 2007, is a 17-year-old prodigy from Bangladesh who has already made her mark as an all-rounder. A right-hand batter and leg-break bowler, Akhter debuted for Bangladesh on February 12, 2023, against Sri Lanka at the 2023 World Cup. She has since, in 25 T20Is, added 248 runs to the tally and struck 13 wickets. Her youthful energy and ability to adapt quickly to different game situations have set her apart from her peers. At such a young age, Akhter has shown exceptional prowess with the bat, while her leg-spin also being crucial. Akhter’s all-around abilities suggest that she could soon become one of the most influential players in Bangladesh women’s cricket.
Shashini Gimhani: The Sri Lankan Spin Wizard
At just 15 years old, Shashini Gimhani is the youngest of this emerging group of cricketers, yet she has already demonstrated that she can compete at the highest level. Born on December 9, 2008, Gimhani is a right-hand batter and left-arm wrist spinner, a rare combination that has quickly set her apart. Gimhani made her T20I debut on May 1, 2024, against Uganda, making an immediate impact with her unconventional bowling style, finishing with figures of 2/23 (4). Wrist-spin is a difficult craft, and Gimhani’s ability to turn the ball both ways has troubled even the most experienced batters. Despite her young age, her maturity on the field and her tactical acumen have made her one of the most talked-about players in Sri Lanka’s cricket circles. With time on her side, Gimhani is expected to evolve into one of the premier spinners in women’s cricket.