Athapaththu stressed that the tour carries significant importance, with valuable points at stake that could help Sri Lanka avoid the uncertainty of going through the qualifying playoffs for the forthcoming ODI World Cup.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve worked hard on muscling our batting and improving our power-hitting under the new coach in preparation for the World Cup. This tour is very important for us in terms of securing direct qualification rather than having to go through playoffs,\u201d she said in a statement released by Sri Lanka cricket.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on the growth of women\u2019s cricket in Sri Lanka during her tenure, Athapaththu expressed pride in the progress made from humble beginnings.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cToday, I\u2019m proud to say that women\u2019s cricket here is on an even keel from the little it was before I took over. Young players have come forward to raise their hands and are the beacon to the game further evolving,\u201d she noted.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
She added that the appointment of Australian coach Jamie Siddons marked a significant step in the team\u2019s development.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe arrival of Jamie Siddons is a huge step for women\u2019s cricket, going to the next level,\u201d Athapaththu said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The skipper also spoke about the absence of experienced batter Vishmi Gunaratne, who missed the tour due to injury, calling it unfortunate but expressing confidence in her replacement.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Athapaththu further credited Sri Lanka Cricket and former players for their continued support in uplifting the women\u2019s game, along with the efforts of the coaching staff in shaping the team into a competitive unit.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The skipper also spoke about the absence of experienced batter Vishmi Gunaratne, who missed the tour due to injury, calling it unfortunate but expressing confidence in her replacement.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Athapaththu will captain the team in both formats, with experienced campaigners Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nilakshika Silva, and Inoka Ranaweera providing stability alongside several emerging players.<\/p>\r\n\r\n