In a significant move leading up to the highly anticipated Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, the UP Warriorz are gearing up for the tournament with a major roster change. Sri Lankan sensation Chamari Athapaththu has been roped in as a substitute for English speedster Lauren Bell, who has stepped down from the second edition due to undisclosed reasons, causing a ripple effect in the cricketing community. The announcement came out on Friday, January 26, setting a fortuitous tone for Athapaththu’s entry into the renowned championship.
Fresh off her ICC Women’s ODI Player of the Year 2023 coronation earlier this week, Athapaththu’s attachment to the UP Warriorz squad adds a layer of excitement to the upcoming season, scheduled to commence on February 23. The development is particularly striking, as the Sri Lankan captain, despite her illustrious career, unexpectedly remained unpicked in the player auction last month. This turnaround guarantees that the league won’t be devoid of her flair—an overarching storyline ahead of the WPL’s kickoff.
The announcement came by way of the WPL’s media advisory statement, “English fast bowler Lauren Bell has withdrawn from the upcoming season of the TATA Women’s Premier League 2024 and UP Warriorz have named Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu as a replacement for Bell.” The statement carries weight not only because of the switch in player personnel but also due to the formidable reputation Athapaththu brings to the team.
Among the most formidable batters in international women’s cricket, Athapaththu’s inclusion upends the power dynamics within the league. The Sri Lankan captain has featured in over 120 T20 Internationals—a testament to her sustainability and high-performance level over the years. With a penchant for aggressive batting, Athapaththu holds the record as the sole Lankan woman to hit a century in the T20 format. These credentials undoubtedly elevate the UP Warriorz’ portfolio of players, infusing an air of expectation and anticipation into the fanbase.
There is a strategic edge to her acquisition as well—a move that has been carried out for Athapaththu’s base price of INR 30 lakh. Given her seniority and experience, this purchase is seen by many aficionados as a shrewd investment by the UP Warriorz, banking on Athapaththu’s capability to deliver both runs and inspiration.
Athapaththu’s cricketing journey is nothing short of inspirational. From humble beginnings, her career has been a beacon of hope for aspiring cricketers, especially from countries where the women’s game requires more nurturing. Her aggressive stroke-making, strategic mindset, and the ability to turn the tides make her a genuine match-winner.
The WPL has carved out a niche in showcasing magnificent talents, and with Athapaththu donning the UP Warriorz’ colors, the upcoming season is poised to push the boundaries of excitement. The mix of established cricketing prowess from all around the globe has set the stage for a tournament that could offer memorable contests, breathtaking performances, and, essentially, a platform where stars like Athapaththu shine the brightest.
This pivotal signing reinforces the tournament’s commitment to showcasing the very best in women’s cricket. As teams finalize their preparations, fans are hitching their loyalties and expectations to these phenomenal athletes. Athapaththu’s participation brings with it an assurance of high caliber cricket and the inevitable thrills associated with a player of her stature.
As excitement builds and predictions swirl, cricket enthusiasts and pundits alike are tuning in with bated breath to witness how the UP Warriorz leverage Athapaththu’s inclusion in their quest for the prestigious WPL title. With the tournament approaching, one can only surmise the riveting cricketing narratives that are set to unfold, with Athapaththu at the forefront—a beacon for her team and the sport.
More to follow as the anticipation for the WPL 2024 reaches a fever pitch, with cricket aficionados marking their calendars for what promises to be an illustrious chapter in the annals of women’s premier league cricket.
