Biography of Chamari Athapaththu

Chamari Athapaththu, born on February 9, 1990, in Gokarella, Sri Lanka, is a remarkable cricketing talent who has made significant contributions to women's cricket. As a left-handed batting all-rounder and a right-arm offbreak bowler, Athapaththu has established herself as one of the leading figures in international cricket, especially representing her nation in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).

Early Life

Chamari grew up in a cricket-loving family and was introduced to the sport at a young age. Her passion for cricket blossomed during her childhood, where she began playing with her brothers. Initially, she played in local tournaments and school competitions, but her exceptional skills quickly gained attention. Athapaththu's discipline and hard work led her to represent Sri Lanka at various junior levels, where she honed her talent and made a name for herself.

International Debut

Athapaththu made her international debut in 2009 during a T20I match against the West Indies. Her impressive performance in the domestic circuit saw her being selected, and she showcased her talent on the international stage. She made her ODI debut shortly thereafter, on January 29, 2009, against the same opponent. From these initial matches, it was clear that she had the potential to be a significant contributor to the Sri Lankan women's team.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout her career, Chamari Athapaththu has achieved numerous milestones. She is noted for being the first woman cricketer from Sri Lanka to score a century in T20I matches, achieving this milestone against Australia in 2018. This performance solidified her status as a crucial player for Sri Lanka, and she continued to break barriers by leading the team to new heights.

Athapaththu's consistency as a batsman was exemplified during the 2016 ICC World Twenty20 when she played a key role in Sri Lanka's campaign. Her explosive batting capacity and strategic mindset have often helped her team in crucial matches, demonstrating her understanding of the game and sharp instincts.

Records and Impact on the Game

Chamari Athapaththu holds several records and has had a profound impact on women's cricket, both in Sri Lanka and globally. She became the first female cricketer to score a half-century in a World Cup match for Sri Lanka, setting a precedent for future players. Athapaththu's leadership qualities also became apparent when she captained the Sri Lankan national team, inspiring many young girls to pursue their dreams in cricket.

Beyond records, her journey has helped elevate women's cricket in Sri Lanka and increase its visibility. Athapaththu has been instrumental in breaking gender stereotypes in a country where women's sports often receive less attention. Her success story has motivated aspiring female cricketers, demonstrating that with perseverance and dedication, they can compete at the highest levels.

Career Statistics

ODI Career Statistics

• Matches: 131
• Runs Scored: 3,156
• Batting Average: 30.19
• Centuries (100s): 5
• Half-Centuries (50s): 15
• Best Score: 130
• Wickets: 83
• Bowling Average: 33.67

T20I Career Statistics

• Matches: 119
• Runs Scored: 1,831
• Batting Average: 27.66
• Centuries (100s): 1
• Half-Centuries (50s): 8
• Best Score: 113
• Wickets: 45
• Bowling Average: 29.00

Conclusion

Chamari Athapaththu's journey from a young girl inspired by cricket to a national icon is truly inspiring. Her contributions on and off the field have not only enriched Sri Lankan cricket but have also paved the way for future generations. With an impressive record and a passion for the game, Athapaththu remains a cornerstone of women's cricket in Sri Lanka and a role model for aspiring cricketers worldwide.