At just 17 years old, Manudi Nanayakkara is making her mark in Sri Lankan women’s cricket. Born on December 15, 2007, she has emerged as a left-handed batting all-rounder and right-arm medium-fast bowler, known for her sharp cricketing skills. Now, she is set to represent Sri Lanka on their tour of New Zealand in March 2025, marking a significant step in her young career.
Her journey from school cricket to the national team reflects her dedication, resilience, and exceptional talent. With an intense passion for the sport and a strong work ethic, Manudi is poised to play a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s cricketing future.
Early Passion for Cricket
Manudi’s love for cricket started early, inspired by watching matches with her family. She began playing with boys in her neighborhood before joining her school’s cricket team, where she stood out as a top performer.
“My family has been my biggest support. They encouraged me to pursue cricket, even when balancing studies and training was tough.” she says.
Her dedication and talent led to her selection for the Sri Lanka Women’s Under-19 team, where she quickly proved to be a key player.
Rising Through the U19 Ranks
Playing for Sri Lanka’s U19 team was a major milestone in Manudi’s career. She consistently delivered match-winning performances, excelling in both batting and bowling.
One of her standout moments came in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, where her aggressive batting and disciplined bowling helped Sri Lanka secure crucial wins.
“Competing at the U19 level was a great learning experience. It gave me the confidence to aim higher and push my limits.” Her performances drew national attention, earning her a well-deserved call-up to the senior squad.
Stepping into the National Team
In early 2025, Manudi was named in the Sri Lanka Women’s National Team for their New Zealand tour. Alongside Rashmika Sewwandi and Chethana Vimukthi, she is among the three uncapped players selected, signaling a new era for the team.
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“Getting selected for the national team is a dream come true. But I know this is just the beginning—I have to work even harder now.” she reiterates.
The New Zealand series will be her first major test at the international level, where she aims to prove her potential against some of the world’s best players.
Overcoming Challenges and Future Goals
Like many young female cricketers in Sri Lanka, Manudi has faced challenge of balancing academics with sports. However, she remains optimistic about the growing support for women’s cricket.
“I hope to see more young girls getting the opportunity to play and better facilities for women’s cricket in Sri Lanka.”
Her aspirations include becoming a regular in the national team, competing in global T20 leagues, and helping Sri Lanka win major international tournaments.
Manudi Nanayakkara represents the bright future of Sri Lankan women’s cricket. Her fearless batting, sharp bowling, and strong mindset make her one of the most exciting young cricketers to watch.
As she prepares for her debut series, cricket fans eagerly await her performance. With her dedication and skill, she has the potential to inspire the next generation of female cricketers and lead Sri Lanka to greater heights.