Sri Lanka are set to reshuffle their line-up with wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewni dropped, opening the door for Kaushini Nuthyangana to step in behind the stumps. The move signals a subtle shift as Sri Lanka look to balance experience with emerging options in a squad that already carries a mix of proven performers and new faces.
Alongside the seasoned Inoka Ranaweera, Sri Lanka have several bowling options to consider, including Shashini Gimhani, Kawya Sewwandi, Rashmika Kavindi and uncapped Nimasha Madushani. The variety gives the team flexibility, but also presents selection questions as they try to find the right combination for conditions.
The probable XI underlines continuity at the top, with Chamari Athapaththu continuing as captain and leading a batting group that includes Vishmi Gunaratne and Harshitha Samarawickrama. With Kavisha Dilhari and Nilakshika Silva adding stability in the middle, much will depend on how effectively the lower order and bowling attack can support the side.
Visakhapatnam presents an intriguing challenge. India Women last played a T20I here back in 2014, also against Sri Lanka, and historically the venue has not produced big scores, with an average first-innings total of just 115 across six women’s T20Is. However, recent matches during the ODI World Cup painted a very different picture, suggesting a surface that could reward batters far more generously. Dew is expected to play a role as the match wears on, while clear skies and pleasant temperatures around 23°C should ensure uninterrupted play.
There are also a few notable talking points heading into the game. Smriti Mandhana stands out as one of only four batters from Full Member nations to have scored a T20I century since the last T20 World Cup. For Sri Lanka, Athapaththu carries unique experience, being the only player in the current touring squad to have previously featured in a T20I at this venue. Meanwhile, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur will be keen to rediscover her fluency, having managed just 78 runs in five T20Is since November 2024 at a strike rate of 106.84.
With selection tweaks, contrasting historical data on the pitch, and key players under the spotlight, the stage is set for a contest shaped as much by adaptability as by form.
