Chamari Athapaththu: ‘I Feel Like I’ve Failed as Captain’

Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu has expressed her disappointment following her team’s five-wicket loss to West Indies in match No. 17 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

After being asked to bat first in Bristol, Sri Lanka struggled and were all out for just 98 runs in 19.4 overs. Athapaththu scored only two runs off six balls, while the West Indies easily chased the target with 23 balls remaining.

This loss puts Sri Lanka’s hopes of reaching the semifinals in jeopardy. With only one win and two losses from three matches, they are near the bottom of Group 2 with two points and a concerning net run rate of -1.913. They need a significant turnaround to keep their chances alive.

Athapaththu, in her tenth T20 World Cup, appeared visibly upset after the match.

“It’s really sad,” she said. “I’ve played for 18 years with the national team and have never gotten a chance to lead my team to a World Cup semifinal.”

“While I’ve achieved a lot individually, I feel like a failure as a captain. It’s painful for a player. I have to live with that feeling now.”

“I did my best and should have played more responsibly. If I had, we could have won. I regret that. I take full responsibility, especially as the captain and an experienced player. I’m very sad and feel like I’ve lost my last chance.”

Looking forward, Athapaththu acknowledged her uncertain future regarding the next Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan in 2028.

“I can’t say much right now because I’m 36 years old,” she said. “Fitness will be a key factor in deciding my future. I’ll do my best to stay fit and maintain my skills.”

“If the team wants me, I will continue, but my performance and fitness will ultimately determine that.”

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 | Group 2 Points Table