Sri Lanka is set to host an exciting bilateral cricket series as the New Zealand Women’s A Team tours the island in May 2026. The series, featuring both One Day and T20 matches, will see the visitors compete against the Sri Lanka Women’s A Team in what promises to be a competitive showcase of emerging talent.

All matches will be held at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS), with play scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. each day. The New Zealand side is expected to arrive in Sri Lanka on 7 May 2026, giving them several days to acclimatize before the series begins.
The tour will consist of three One Day matches followed by three T20 encounters. The One Day fixtures are scheduled for 12th, 15th, and 18th May, while the T20 series will take place on 21st, 23rd, and 25th May.

This series is seen as an important opportunity for both teams to develop their next generation of international players. With a mix of promising players and those on the cusp of senior national selection, the matches are expected to be closely contested.

Bangladesh Women edged out Sri Lanka Women in a tense finish during the first ODI of the Sri Lanka Women’s tour of Bangladesh 2026, chasing down 206 with just nine balls to spare in a match that swung dramatically in the final overs.

Put into bat, Sri Lanka Team posted a competitive 205/9 from their 50 overs, built on steady contributions rather than a single dominant innings. Imesha Dulani (52 off 77) and Hansima Karunaratne (54 off 71) anchored the innings with a crucial middle-order stand after early setbacks. Captain Hasini Perera made a brisk 27, but Sri Lanka struggled to accelerate in the final 10 overs, losing wickets at regular intervals.

Bangladesh’s bowling attack kept things tight throughout. Ritu Moni was the standout performer, claiming 3 for 36 and breaking key partnerships, while Nahida Akter and Marufa Akter maintained pressure with disciplined spells.

In reply, Bangladesh got off to a disastrous start, losing two wickets within the first two overs. However, Sharmin Akhter produced a match-defining innings, scoring a composed 86 off 127 balls to anchor the chase. She found support from Sobhana Mostary, who made 41 before retiring hurt, and later Shorna Akter, whose 35 added momentum in the middle overs.

Despite being in control for much of the chase, Bangladesh nearly stumbled at the finish. A late burst from Sri Lanka’s bowlers saw Dewmi Vihanga pick up three crucial wickets, triggering a collapse that left Bangladesh at 200/7 after being comfortably placed at 199/3.
The match briefly tilted back in Sri Lanka’s favor, but Bangladesh held their nerve. Extras proved decisive, with 21 wides significantly easing the chase. Eventually, Bangladesh crossed the target in 48.3 overs, sealing a hard-fought three-wicket victory.

Sri Lanka will rue their inability to capitalize on key moments, particularly in the death overs with both bat and ball. The absence of star player Chamari Athapaththu was evident, as they lacked the firepower to push their total beyond reach.

Sri Lanka Cricket is preparing to introduce a revised ethics code for nationally contracted players, marking a significant shift toward a more disciplined and professional national setup. The new framework, which will accompany the upcoming player contracts, is designed not only to regulate behavior but also to restore public confidence in the national team.

At the core of the proposed code are stricter guidelines governing personal interactions during international tours and home series. Players and support staff, including coaches, will be limited to engaging only with spouses or officially recognised partners. This measure aims to reduce external distractions and minimise the risk of undue influence, particularly in an era where concerns around information leaks and inducements remain prevalent.

The code also addresses language and conduct, both on and off the field. The use of obscene or inappropriate language during matches or official engagements will be considered a breach of discipline. Team managers will be granted authority to impose immediate fines, reinforcing accountability within the squad. Officials believe such steps will help cultivate a more respectful and professional team culture.

Social media usage has emerged as another focal point. Players will be prohibited from posting content that could undermine team unity or excessively promote personal branding at the expense of collective identity. The move reflects a growing recognition of the impact digital platforms have on team dynamics and public perception.

In terms of appearance, the new regulations introduce a formal dress and grooming standard. Players will not be allowed to wear ear studs, earrings, or display tattoos while representing the national side. Additionally, casual attire such as shorts and rubber slippers will be banned during visits to cricket board offices, practice sessions, and official tours. These measures are intended to project a consistent image of professionalism and discipline.

Anti-corruption considerations also underpin several aspects of the code. By restricting unauthorised interactions and closely monitoring player conduct, the board aims to safeguard the integrity of the game and prevent potential breaches.

The previous player contracts expired on March 31, and the new agreements, incorporating this ethics code, are expected to be presented soon. With these changes, Sri Lanka Cricket signals a firm commitment to reshaping the culture of the national team and aligning it with modern professional standards.