In a strategic move ahead of the series finale, the Indian women's cricket team made significant changes to their playing eleven for the fifth and final T20 International against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram. The most notable absence was that of star opener Smriti Mandhana, alongside fast bowler Renuka Singh Thakur.
Strategic Rest and New Opportunities
At the toss, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur clarified that both players were given a well-deserved break. With an unassailable 4-0 lead in the five-match series, the team management opted for player rotation to provide opportunities to other squad members. This decision, while initially puzzling some fans, is part of a broader strategy to manage workload and test bench strength.
"Yes, we have two changes today, Smriti and Renuka are resting. Kamalini is going to debut and Sneh Rana is back," Harmanpreet stated. She emphasized the importance of finishing the series on a high note, maintaining the momentum built from the first match.
A Landmark Debut in Thiruvananthapuram
The most exciting development was the international debut of 17-year-old G Kamalini, who received her cap from captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Her inclusion added fresh energy to the side. The experienced Sneh Rana also returned to the lineup, replacing Renuka Singh Thakur.
India's final playing XI featured Shafali Verma opening the batting, with the young Kamalini. Wicketkeeping duties remained with Richa Ghosh, while Harmanpreet Kaur led the middle order, supported by Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, and Amanjot Kaur.
Sri Lanka Aim to Build on Positives
Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu won the toss and elected to bowl first. She expressed her team's desire to build on the positives from the previous encounter and use the match as a learning experience for her young side.
"We decide bowl first. Because we played a little bit good cricket last game," Chamari said. She acknowledged the value of playing against the world champions, stating, "we learn a lot of things in every game." She highlighted that these opportunities are crucial for her team's youngsters to learn from mistakes and carry positive lessons forward.
The Sri Lankan Women's playing XI was: Hasini Perera, Chamari Athapaththu(c), Imesha Dulani, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Rashmika Sewwandi, Kaushani Nuthyangana(w), Nimasha Madushani, Inoka Ranaweera, Malki Madara.
The final match, therefore, served dual purposes: for India, it was a chance to experiment and cap off a dominant series with a clean sweep, while for Sri Lanka, it represented another step in their development against top-tier opposition.
