Sri Lanka Women’s ‘A’ selection sparks conflict concerns
A matter of principle and potential conflict of interest has arisen following the announcement of the 15-member Sri Lanka Women’s ‘A’ squad for the upcoming 2026 Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars, revealed on the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) official Facebook page on Thursday. According to the ACC post, which asked, “Will this group seize their opportunity at the DP World Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026?”, the squad is led by wicketkeeper-batter Anushka Sanjeewani and features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent for the eight-team Women’s One Day International tournament, scheduled to be held in Thailand from 13 to 22 February.
However, the core issue extends beyond the announcement itself. The selection has sparked questions about the principles guiding the process and whether merit has been fully considered. The inclusion of 23-year-old Vitini Chandima has attracted attention, despite her evident talent and potential, highlighted in a congratulatory Facebook post by Australia’s Gold Coast District Cricket Club on Saturday.
The controversy stems from Vitini’s mother, Rasanjali de Alwis, a member of the current National Cricket Selection Panel. This relationship has raised concerns over a possible conflict of interest, given the perception that a selector may have influenced the inclusion of her own daughter in the squad.
Sri Lanka ‘A’ has been drawn in Group B alongside Bangladesh ‘A’, Malaysia, and hosts Thailand, while Group A consists of India ‘A’, Nepal, Pakistan ‘A’, and the United Arab Emirates.
| Sri Lanka ‘A’ squad | |
| Anushka Sanjeewani (Capt/wk), Mithali Bandara, Vitini Chandima, Sanjana de Silva, Inshani Hansima, Yasanthi Herath, Ama Kanchana, Sachini Nisansala, Sathya Sandeepani, Nethmi Senarathna, Rashmi Silva, Shayani Shashikala, Malsha Shehani, Chethana Vimukthi, Shashini Wijayarathna
|