Defending champions Sri Lanka, led by inspirational skipper Chamari Athapaththu, have announced their 15-member squad for the 6th edition of the ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup, set to be hosted by the United Arab Emirates from 28th August to 13th September 2026. The tournament marks a historic first for the UAE as hosts, while Sri Lanka enter as titleholders after clinching their maiden Asia Cup trophy in the 5th edition on home soil in July 2024.
The 2026 edition includes eight teams, split into two groups: Group A features Hong Kong, India, Thailand, and Pakistan, while Group B comprises Sri Lanka, UAE, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. India, skippered by Harmanpreet Kaur, won the inaugural edition in 2012 and successfully defended their title in 2016. Bangladesh claimed their first Asia Cup crown in 2018, before India reclaimed the trophy in 2022. Sri Lanka, under Athapaththu’s leadership, broke new ground in 2024 by defeating India by 8 wickets in the final at Dambulla to lift their first-ever ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup.
As a full-member nation of the Asian Cricket Council, Sri Lanka secured automatic qualification for the 2026 tournament. Their campaign begins on 29th August 2026 against hosts UAE at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with the match scheduled for 8 PM IST.
The Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee has named a balanced 15-member squad, blending seasoned campaigners with emerging talent. Chamari Athapaththu returns as captain, with Harshitha Samarawickrama appointed vice-captain. Kaushini Nuthyangana retains her role as wicketkeeper.
Notably, Dewmi Vihanga earns her maiden T20I call-up, reflecting Sri Lanka’s commitment to nurturing new talent. Mithali Ayodya makes a welcome return to the squad after missing the previous T20I series against Pakistan. The squad also features key contributors from the 2024 triumph, including Kavisha Dilhari, Vishmi Gunaratne and a few more.
Sri Lanka Women’s Asia Cup 2026 Squad:
Chamari Athapaththu (C), Imesha Dulani, Sanjana Kavindi, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama (VC), Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Hasini Perera, Kaushini Nuthyangana (WK), Dewmi Vihanga, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Chamudi Praboda, Chethana Vimukthi, Kawya Kavindi, Mithali Ayodya
With the tournament featuring a mix of established and rising sides, Sri Lanka face a challenging path to retain their crown. Their opening fixture against UAE sets the tone for a campaign where every match will test their depth and adaptability. As defending champions, Athapaththu’s side carries the weight of expectation, but also the confidence of knowing they have already scaled the summit once.
The 2026 Women’s T20 Asia Cup promises high-octane cricket, and Sri Lanka’s squad announcement signals their intent to defend their title with a blend of experience, youth, and the leadership of one of women’s cricket’s most respected figures.
Loves all things female cricket