Athapaththu: ‘Facing Australia After India Is the Ultimate Test for Sri Lanka’

Sri Lanka Seek Redemption Against Australia in Crucial ODI Clash

After a narrow 23-run defeat to India in their tournament opener, Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu says taking on Australia next is the perfect challenge to gauge her team’s progress. The match—scheduled for October 5, 2025, in Colombo—will be the first ODI meeting between the two sides since 2019.

Athapaththu’s Mindset: Embrace the Challenge

“It’s good to start with the best teams. If we can compete with India and Australia back-to-back, it shows where we stand globally,” Athapaththu told reporters after the India loss.

Despite the loss, Sri Lanka showed resilience—especially in the batting department—chasing a 280-plus target with determination before falling short in the final overs.

Why This Match Matters

• First Sri Lanka vs Australia ODI since November 2019
• Part of ICC Women’s Championship 2025–27 cycle
• Crucial for Sri Lanka’s World Cup qualification hopes
• Australia currently ranked #1 in ICC Women’s ODI rankings

Head-to-Head: Sri Lanka vs Australia (Women’s ODIs)

Key Players to Watch

Pitch & Conditions – R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

Infographic: Sri Lanka’s Road to Redemption

1. Oct 2: Lost to India by 23 runs (Chased 282)
2. Oct 5: vs Australia – must-win for momentum
3. Oct 8: vs New Zealand – final group stage match
4. Top 3 teams qualify for Super Six stage

Tactical Insight

[INTERNAL_LINK:Chamari Athapaththu]’s leadership will be tested against Australia’s disciplined bowling unit led by Megan Schutt and Annabel Sutherland. Sri Lanka’s middle order—particularly Nilakshi de Silva and Harshitha Samarawickrama—must convert starts into big scores to stay competitive.

Sources

• ESPNcricinfo: ‘Good to start with best teams’ – Sri Lanka’s Athapaththu ready for Australia after India
• ICC Women’s Championship Official Page
• Sri Lanka Women’s Team Profile – ESPNcricinfo