Sri Lanka Women’s team’s captain Chamari Athapaththu finally brought joy and happiness for millions of Sri Lanka Sports loving public! Her turbo-charged fifty combined well with the steadfast half-century of Harshitha Samarawickrama as a resilient Sri Lanka carved an eight-wicket win over defending champions India to bag their maiden women’s Asia Cup title last Sunday.
The win was a results of many factors – from team unity to sharp leadership, from mental toughness to physical fitness and a roadmap to achieve the ultimate goal!
Cricket Age Exclusively spoke to over 30 genuine experts of Sri Lanka and insiders of Women’s team to highlight the real contributors. While talking, it emerged that Manuja Keriapperuma’s departure as manager was the best thing happened to Sri Lanka Women’s team! His tenure was a dark period for the team and his resignation gave the players self belief to achieve big results.
Then onwards, it was all about the team spirit. And, here are the real heroes of a miraculous victory:
Chamari Athapaththu: Known for her calm demeanour, as captain of the ship she led from the front. Her expierence of playing T20 leagues around the globe helped her teammates immensely. Her leadership qualities – backing the players during low phase – stands out, as well as her on field decision making. She, Indeed, is amongst the greatest sportsperson Sri Lanka has ever produced! Hopefully, she won’t join politics after retirement!
Rumesh Ratnayake: More than his coaching, he was credited for not allowing outside Influence and interference on the team! He ensured discipline, team spirit in the dressing room, which is not seen in the Sri Lanka Men’s team for long time now.
Duminda Perera: He was Colombo provincial coach, then was appointed as batting coach for the Asia Cup. Under his supervision, batters performed under pressure and, unlike Sri Lanka Men’s team, chased targets with ease and didn’t crumble.
Carman Mapatuna: He played club Cricket in Uk. In Sri Lanka Cricket circuit, first he was district coach, then provincial and then graduated to Women’s team as assistant Coach. Those who track Women’s team, speaks highly about Mapatuna coaching methods.
Darshana Weerasinghe: As a strength and conditioning instructor, he must be credited for Women’s team’s fitness. Under his supervision, girls running between the wicket is a revolution!
The Asia Cup Triumph of Sri Lanka Women’s team has proved that it doesn’t need outstation big matches drama manipulaters, dollar-minded consultants, group photographs of former legends (who are interested only in money spinning IPL) encouraging players and coaching staff just for cheap media attention before a series, Instead it need only dedication and unwavering commitment to bring the glory for the motherland!
