The Sri Lanka Cricket Lionesses made headlines and history earlier this month, securing their first-ever bilateral ODI series victory over New Zealand’s White Ferns.
This was their first-ever series win against New Zealand in any format. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu took centre stage as the series’ highest run-scorer, amassing 248 runs. Despite falling short in the subsequent three-match T20I series, the Lankan ladies bounced back to clinch their first-ever T20 victory against the New Zealand Women in the final game of the series.
However, their achievements spread beyond the boundary.
Welcoming news accompanied these triumphs. Sri Lanka Cricket’s Executive Committee recently announced a move beneficial to local women’s cricket. They increased the National Women’s Players’ match fees, showcasing a step that affirms the female cricketers’ hard work and talent.
Behind every on-field success is excellent off-field backing. Such sponsorship, commonplace in men’s cricket, elevates the game’s stature and visibility. When extended to women’s teams, it promotes equality, boosts growth, and aids in reshaping global perceptions of women’s cricket.
Amidst their triumphant momentum was the backing of high-profile brands like Honor, a leading global smartphone manufacturer that has only recently entered the local market. This gesture signifies corporations’ essential role in nurturing sports, beyond just the commercial aspect.
In an encouraging shift, brands are championing women’s cricket, investing their resources to elevate it to the respected standing of men’s cricket – a commendable stride towards parity in this age-old game played in a new era.
The significance of the series will serve as a beacon of progress for women’s cricket in Sri Lanka, stirring renewed excitement among the players and fans alike. The women’s game in the country is rapidly evolving and the Lioness’ performances will inspire many young females to pursue the game professionally.
