In an uplifting start to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, UP Warriorz’s latest recruit, Chamari Athapaththu, has made an indelible impression on cricket fans, not just with her batting prowess but also with her heartfelt show of respect for her host nation’s culture. The Sri Lankan cricketer, who was recently honored as the ODI Cricketer of the Year, demonstrated her reverence for India by singing the Indian national anthem during the opening game, captivating those in attendance and winning plaudits from across the cricketing fraternity.
UP Warriorz took to Instagram to share a video that showcased Athapaththu’s remarkable gesture. As the opening clash of WPL 2024 between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals commenced, there lay a moment of pure sportsmanship and cultural appreciation. While it is customary for athletes to stand in respect during the playing of the national anthem, Athapaththu surprised and endeared herself to many when it was evident that she could vocalize it with confidence, indicating her familiarity with the anthem’s lyrics.
The video quickly went viral, sparking conversation and admiration in the comments section. Fans speculated about Athapaththu’s connection to India, marveling at her apparent ability to recite the anthem by heart. Before even stepping onto the field, the Sri Lankan captain and batting sensation had already etched her place in the hearts of the Indian populace and cricket enthusiasts everywhere.
Athapaththu’s affiliation with the UP Warriorz comes after an unexpected turn of events in the WPL 2024 auction where she, surprisingly, went unsold. However, fate stepped in and she was brought into the fold as a replacement for the English pacer Lauren Bell, thereby granting her entry into this prestigious tournament. The UP Warriorz will make their tournament debut against the Royal Challengers Bangalore on February 24, setting the stage for Athapaththu’s potential showcase of talent.
Amidst the backdrop of intense competition and strategic game plays, the UP Warriorz’s team management faces an intriguing decision. With three overseas slots seemingly secured by skipper Alyssa Healy, Tahlia McGrath, and Sophie Ecclestone, the crucial choice now lies in whether to elect Athapaththu or Grace Harris for the middle-order batting position. With a robust roster featuring international talent, the UP Warriorz’s success in 2024 could very well hinge on their selection decisions.
On a grander scale, the entrance of international stars like Athapaththu is indicative of the growing global interchange in women’s cricket, reflecting a shared mission of enhancing the game’s reach and diversity. This importance of creating an inclusive and supportive platform in cricket resonates through such gestures of mutual respect and cultural recognition.
As the WPL season progresses, UP Warriorz boast a formidable squad led by Alyssa Healy, complemented by athletes like Shweta Sehrawat, Kiran Navgire, Vrinda Dinesh, and Deepti Sharma, among others. Their potent mix of youthful vibrance and experienced international talent gives them a solid foundation to contend for the championship.
While Athapaththu’s on-field prowess as a cricketer is unquestioned, it is her off-field embodiment of sportsmanship that has, perhaps, garnered the most attention at the outset of the WPL 2024. Through her actions, she has already delivered a message of cross-cultural camaraderie and goodwill, underlining the fact that in the realm of sports, it’s not just victories and losses that count, but the moments of humanity that truly define the spirit of the game.
