Sri Lanka Women produced a polished all-round performance to defeat Bangladesh Women by 21 runs in the second T20I, sealing the series with a game to spare.

After being put into bat, the visitors posted a competitive 154 for 4 in their 20 overs, built on key contributions from skipper Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama. The innings began cautiously, with Hasini Perera falling early, but Athapaththu steadied the innings with a fluent 42 off 37 balls, striking six boundaries.

The momentum shifted significantly during the latter half as Samarawickrama played an aggressive knock of 49 off just 29 deliveries, including two sixes. She found good support from Imeesha Dulani (27) and Nilakshika Silva, who remained unbeaten on 22, ensuring Sri Lanka finished strongly at a healthy run rate of 7.70. Bangladesh’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Fariha Trisna, Sultana Khatun, Nahida Akter, and Ritu Moni picking up one apiece.

Chasing 155, Bangladesh made a steady start through Dilara Akter and Juairiya Ferdous, who added 46 for the opening wicket. However, regular breakthroughs and sharp fielding dented their progress. Ferdous scored a brisk 29, while Sharmin Akhter anchored the innings with an unbeaten 44, but lacked sufficient support from the middle order.

Sri Lanka’s discipline in the field proved decisive, effecting three crucial run-outs. Kavisha Dilhari was the standout with the ball, claiming 2 for 15 in her four overs, while Sugandika Kumari maintained excellent control, conceding just 14 runs.
Bangladesh eventually finished on 133 for 5, falling short despite a late push.

Former Member of Parliament Eran Wickramaratne has announced that he has accepted the role of Chairman of the newly established Sri Lanka Cricket Transformation Committee, following an invitation from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Minister of Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage.

In an official statement, Wickramaratne said the decision came after extensive discussions with former cricketers and key stakeholders in the sport. He confirmed that he assumed duties with effect from April 29.

He emphasized that the committee’s primary objective is to revive Sri Lanka’s cricketing legacy by restoring both pride and performance standards. Describing the appointment as an honour, Wickramaratne noted that he would be leading a team of nine individuals known for their integrity and professional experience.

The committee comprises a diverse group of experts, including former international cricketers and professionals from management and legal backgrounds. Members include Roshan Mahanama, Kumar Sangakkara, Thushira Radella, Sidath Wettimuny, Avanthi Colombage, Prakash Schaffter, Upul Kumarapperuma, and Dinal Philips.

Outlining the committee’s reform agenda, Wickramaratne identified two key focus areas. The first is the establishment of sound governance within Sri Lanka Cricket. This includes a complete overhaul of the existing governance framework, the introduction of a new constitution aligned with International Cricket Council (ICC) standards, and the implementation of strong transparency and anti-corruption measures aimed at rebuilding public trust.

The second pillar focuses on achieving excellence on the field. Plans include strengthening national teams through improved structural systems, upgrading facilities to world-class standards, and introducing performance-based incentives to help players consistently compete at the highest international level.

Wickramaratne also highlighted his longstanding connection to the sport, noting his involvement in cricket from school to club level. He described the role as both a privilege and a significant responsibility, adding that the committee is committed to delivering sustainable progress with the support and constructive feedback of cricket fans across the country.

Sri Lanka’s cricket administration has entered a period of transition after the government stepped in to take temporary control of the sport’s governing body.

Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage has accepted the resignation of Shammi Silva and the Executive Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket, marking a significant shift in leadership.

Following the resignations, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced that it would assume oversight of cricket administration under the authority granted by the Sports Law No. 25 of 1973. The decision places all operational and administrative matters of SLC under ministerial supervision with immediate effect.

Authorities indicated that the arrangement is temporary and part of a broader effort to stabilise the sport’s administration. A new committee is expected to be appointed in the coming days to examine existing issues and propose structural reforms aimed at improving governance and accountability.

The leadership’s decision to step down was communicated to the government earlier, prompting swift action to ensure continuity in the management of Sri Lanka’s most prominent sport.