Sydney Thunders allrounder Chamari Athapaththu has called for more South Asian players to be given opportunities in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
Speaking at a press conference, Athapaththu said that the WBBL is one of the best franchise leagues in the world and that she would urge franchises to give more South Asian girls an opportunity to shine.
“Franchise cricket is not all about money, it’s about learning new skills, culture and getting experience,” Athapaththu said. “I know many women players from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka who are keen to feature in WBBL due to the standard and pace of cricket over here.”
Atapattu also said that she would take the knowledge she has gained from playing in the WBBL T20 back to Sri Lanka and share it with the young players there.
“I have a good relationship with England’s Heather Knight and not getting any banter from Heather Knight,” Athapaththu said. “She is controlling the squad very well here in Sydney Thunders.”
Sri Lanka to host T10 Women’s league in December
Athapaththu also revealed that Cricket Sri Lanka is planning to organize a T10 Women’s league in Sri Lanka in December.
“It would likely be a four-franchise based tournament,” Chamari Athapaththu said.
Advice to young girls
Atapattu had some advice for young girls who are aspiring to become cricketers.
“Always try to lead from the front when I wear blue jersey from Sri Lanka,” Athapaththu said. “A message to all the young girls is to just focus on the present and play fearless. Don’t think about the future.”
