Sri Lanka Women’s captain Chamari Athapaththu is blocking out the noise around her future and locking into the present as her team prepares for a high-stakes tour of Bangladesh, where World Cup qualification points and momentum are firmly on the line.

Even as conversations about how long she might continue in international cricket gather pace, Chamari is keeping her approach measured. A recent discussion with the new head coach included a request for her to extend her career, but the skipper is not ready to look that far ahead.

“He spoke to me about continuing for another one or two years, but I prefer to take it step by step,” she said before the team’s departure. “My focus is on staying fit and performing. I don’t want to think too much about the future when there’s so much to do right now.”

What lies directly ahead is a six-match series three ODIs in Rajshahi followed by three T20Is in Sylhet with the 50-over games carrying added weight. Sri Lanka are firmly in the race for automatic qualification to the next ICC Women’s World Cup, and the points available in Bangladesh could prove decisive.

“These matches are very important for us,” Chamari said. “If we can secure those ODI points, it gives us a direct path to the World Cup. The team is in a good space mentally, and we’re confident about what we can achieve.”

That confidence will be tested early, not just by the conditions but also by changes in the lineup. Young opener Vishmi Gunaratne has been ruled out through injury, forcing a reshuffle at the top of the order. Chamari admitted the absence is significant but believes it opens the door for another player to step in.

“Vishmi has been a key player for us, so it’s definitely a loss,” she said. “But Hasini has earned this chance. She’s been performing consistently in domestic matches and other tournaments, so now it’s about taking that next step.”

There is also a personal fitness concern hovering over the captain herself. Chamari is recovering from a hand injury that required nine stitches, leaving her availability for the opening matches uncertain.

“I’m still working on my recovery, and we’ll have to assess things day by day,” she said. “Hopefully I can be ready, but we won’t rush it.”

Despite these setbacks, the mood within the squad remains optimistic, helped in part by a fresh approach from the new coaching staff. Since taking over after the West Indies series, the head coach has placed a clear emphasis on sharpening Sri Lanka’s power-hitting ability an area Chamari admits needed attention.

“With big tournaments coming up, we identified power hitting and overall batting strength as areas to improve,” she explained. “We’ve been working hard on that, and also on raising our fielding standards.”

Beyond immediate results, Chamari sees encouraging signs in the wider development of the women’s game back home. The rise of younger players, particularly at Under-19 level, has added depth and energy to the system.

“It’s great to see so many young girls coming into the game and performing well,” she said. “Women’s cricket in Sri Lanka is growing, and a lot of people deserve credit for that from the board to the selectors and former players.”

In response to the ongoing fuel challenges facing the country, the organizing committee of St. Joseph’s College, Colombo 10 has taken a forward-thinking and environmentally conscious by transforming its long-standing vehicle parade into a more sustainable and engaging event. This year, the cherished tradition returns in a new form as the Josephian Cycle Parade 2026, promoting eco-friendly practices while preserving its proud legacy.

The Josephian Vehicle Parade Committee officially announced the event, which is expected to bring together Josephians, well-wishers, and the wider community in a vibrant celebration of unity, tradition, and social responsibility.

Over the years, the parade has grown into a signature event, strengthening bonds among past and present Josephians while serving as a platform to support meaningful causes. The 2026 cycle parade promises an energetic showcase of creativity and participation, coupled with impactful fundraising and awareness initiatives.

The organizing committee also revealed strong corporate backing for the event. CK Orbits – Dubai has joined as the Main Sponsor, while Asha Security and Soqka Batik will serve as Event Partners.

Gold Sponsors for the event include IBFS (Pvt) Ltd, Dastol Motors Lanka, Kobra Energy Drink, Coco Varenda Restaurants, Mind Three Engineering (Pvt) Ltd, Master Mind Developers (Pvt) Ltd, Fortune Films, Scan Me, and Wickey Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd.

Silver Partners supporting the initiative are Abanchy (Pvt) Ltd, Sensory Indulgences, U.B. Perera & Company, Apartner, Thilakawardhana Group of Companies, Cannys Bakers & Restaurants, St. John’s Catering, and Fortune Studios.

The involvement of these organizations reflects a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond business, with a focus on uplifting communities and supporting social causes.

Proceeds and efforts from the Josephian Cycle Parade 2026 will go towards the “Break the Silence” initiative, specifically funding a Smart Board Donation Project for the School for the Deaf and Blind in Ratmalana. This project aims to enhance learning experiences through modern technology, empowering students and creating lasting positive change.

Organizers emphasize that the event is more than just a parade it is a movement promoting sustainability, unity, and social responsibility.

The committee extended heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and supporters for their invaluable contributions and expressed confidence in delivering a memorable and impactful event for all involved.

A gripping final-over contest saw Sri Lanka Under-19 secure a narrow three-run win against Australia in the Women’s Under-19 Tri Series clash at Ian Healy Oval on Saturday, underlining their growing composure in tight situations.

Defending a below-par total of 99, Sri Lanka’s bowlers delivered under pressure to seal victory with just one ball remaining. Skipper Chamudi Praboda rose to the occasion with an impactful spell of 3 for 22, while Shashini Gimhani chipped in with 2 for 13 to derail Australia’s chase at key moments.

Earlier, Sri Lanka’s innings was built on patience rather than power. Limansa Thilakarathne held the top order together with a steady 35 off 43 balls, ensuring stability through the middle overs. A late flourish from Pramudi Methsara, who struck 21 off 13 deliveries, gave the innings a much-needed boost and pushed the total within fighting range.

Australia appeared on course during their chase but were gradually pulled back by disciplined lines and sharp fielding. Their innings closed at 96 in 19.5 overs, falling just short of the target in a dramatic finish.