Sri Lanka Under-19 Women extended their impressive run in the Tri-Series with a composed four-wicket victory over Australia Women Under-19 cricket team at Bill Pippen Oval Today.

After being put in to bat, Australia U-19 struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. Ayla Johnson top-scored with 18 off 29 balls, while Alyssa Dermody added a quick 13. However, regular wickets halted their progress as they finished on a modest 91 for 9 in 20 overs. Limansa Thilakarathne led the bowling effort with an impressive 3 for 26, well supported by Chamudi Praboda, who claimed 2 for 21.

In response, Sri Lanka Women Under-19 cricket team chased down the target with 92 for 6 in 19.3 overs. Despite a few setbacks, Pramudi Methsara anchored the innings with an unbeaten 21 off 17 balls, while Danodya Sewmini contributed a steady 14. Australia’s Filippa Suesee (3 for 18) and Ira Aery (2 for 13) fought hard, but Sri Lanka held their nerve.

Sri Lanka’s rising pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana is set to make his return to competitive cricket, with a move to the Indian Premier League (IPL) expected in the coming days.

After a period on the sidelines due to injury concerns, the young fast bowler has successfully completed all required fitness tests, clearing the final hurdle in his recovery process. His return comes as welcome news for both fans and team management, who have been awaiting his comeback.

Sources indicate that Pathirana is now preparing to travel to India, where he is likely to link up with the Kolkata Knight Riders squad. His inclusion could provide a significant boost to the team’s bowling attack as the tournament moves into a crucial phase.

Known for his unique action and death-over effectiveness, Pathirana’s return adds depth and firepower, potentially strengthening Kolkata’s chances in the latter stages of the competition.

Sri Lanka has earned a proud moment on the global cricketing stage as national women’s captain Chamari Athapaththu has been appointed to the Player Advisory Board of the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA).

The latest reshuffle of the board brings together some of the most influential voices in international cricket. Athapaththu joins a distinguished lineup that includes Pat Cummins, Jason Holder, Heather Knight, Aiden Markram, Scott Edwards, and Laura Wolvaardt.

She also joins newly inducted members such as Rashid Khan, Wayne Madsen, Daryl Mitchell, and Maddy Green. The new appointments come as former board members Tim Southee and Sophie Devine step down from their roles.

Speaking about her appointment, Athapaththu described the opportunity as both a personal honour and a milestone for Sri Lankan cricket as a whole. She emphasized that her inclusion reflects growing recognition for players from Asia on the global stage.

The experienced all-rounder expressed her eagerness to bring her international insights to the table, highlighting the importance of ensuring that players from all regions have a meaningful voice in shaping the future of the sport. She particularly stressed the need for stronger representation from Asian cricketing nations in global decision-making.

Athapaththu also reaffirmed her commitment to collaborating with fellow board members to enhance player welfare, support the development of the game, and contribute to a more balanced and inclusive global cricket structure.

According to the WCA, the refreshed Player Advisory Board comes at a crucial time for international cricket. The body aims to strengthen player representation and ensure that athletes play a central role in guiding the long-term direction and sustainability of the game.