Following their ongoing tour of South Africa, Sri Lanka is set for participation in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s Twenty20 (T20) World Cup Global Qualifier in April-May 2024. Ahead of this crucial ICC event, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled its squad of 15 players, which includes a promising teenage talent.
Fueled by their recent historic series victory over South Africa, the senior national team continues to make strides in the cricketing world. Meanwhile, on home turf, the Under-19 unit impressed in a Tri-Series against cricketing powerhouses Australia and England.
Who is Shashini Gimhani?
In the early stages of the Under-19 Tri-Series, all eyes were on 15-year-old Shashini Gimhani, whose exceptional left-arm wrist spin captured the imagination of cricket enthusiasts. Following her notable 7-wicket campaign in the Tri-Series, Shashini’s talent has earned her a well-deserved call-up to the senior national team.
Hailing from Devapathiraja College in Ratgama, Galle – a renowned institution known for nurturing female cricketers – Shashini initially pursued education at the college. However, her passion for the game quickly took precedence.
Earlier this year, during the National Super League One Day Tournament, Shashini delivered an impressive performance, bowling 11 overs with an economy rate of 4.73 and claiming two wickets. While opportunities were limited in the T20 matches, she showcased her potential in the U19 Tri-Series, producing figures of 2/12 (4) and 1/28 (3.4) against England, and 0/14 (2) and 1/27 (4) against Australia. She concluded her campaign with figures of 3/48 (10) against Australia in her only One Day bowling inning.
With her rare left-arm wrist spin, Shashini’s journey from a promising talent to a national sensation underscores the passion and hard work she has put behind her craft.