In a significant announcement on Thursday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) crowned the Women’s ODI Player of the Year for the remarkable cricketing season of 2023. This decision followed shortly after Hayley Matthews from the West Indies was acclaimed the best T20I player of the year. The prestigious accolade for the Women’s best ODI Player of 2023 was awarded to the Sri Lankan cricketing sensation, Chamari Athapaththu, heralding her exceptional accomplishments with the bat throughout the year.
Athapaththu’s 2023 cricketing campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. Her stellar performance was instrumental in propelling the Sri Lankan team to achieve historic feats, including their first-ever series triumph over the formidable New Zealand team. This landmark victory came as the Lankan side encountered the white-ferns on home soil and emerged victorious with a series score of 2-1.
A pivotal figure in the Lankan lineup, Athapaththu showed resolute determination and skill, especially when counts were high, and the team looked towards her for leadership. She led from the front, shouldering the innings with magnificent centuries in both of the wins. With scores of 108* and 140* in the corresponding ODI matches, she remained unbeaten at the crease, guiding her team to victory in challenging chase scenarios with composure and grace.
Athapaththu’s reaction to receiving the honor was a blend of happiness and pride. In a video shared by the ICC, the seasoned player shared her euphoric feelings, “You know I have a big dream. So I achieved that dream finally. So I am happy.” Athapaththu also emphasized her philosophy of growth in her game, stating, “Sometimes the level up is about improving and not impressing. So I want to keep doing my best for my country all the time.” Her dedication to excelling for her nation was unfaltering, and this award seemed to be a testament to her unwavering commitment and performances.
Her remarkable scoring feat included a total haul of 415 runs across eight matches accompanied by a wicket to her credit. Athapaththu commenced the year with a robust performance that led to a 1-0 series win against Bangladesh, a series that had its fair share of challenges due to weather disruptions. She then showcased her batting prowess with two masterful centuries against New Zealand, knitting the innings together with finesse and authority.
The high-scoring games put Athapaththu in the limelight and made it evident that she was a force to be reckoned with in international women’s cricket. Her ability to anchor the innings, absorb pressure, and counterattack when necessary made her one of the most valuable players of the year. Athapaththu’s contributions were pivotal not only in the context of the matches but in asserting Sri Lanka’s emerging dominance in women’s cricket on an international level.
As accolades and recognition pour in for Athapaththu, her story becomes one of inspiration and achievement, further encouraging the aspiring cricketers in Sri Lanka and beyond. The ICC’s acknowledgment of her prowess and impact is a celebratory moment for not just Athapaththu and her team but for lovers of cricket who relish the success of exceptional talent and hard work.
The Women’s ODI Player of the Year award to Chamari Athapaththu now stands as a beacon of excellence, inspiring future generations of cricketers. Her performances continue to carve her legacy into the annals of cricketing history, and her journey as a player only sets higher benchmarks for those who dare to dream big in the realm of international women’s cricket.
