Samari Athapathu has admitted that he felt like a failure as a captain following the Sri Lankan women’s cricket team’s defeat to the West Indies women’s team in Bristol.
The result leaves them fifth out of six in Group 2 and in a tough position in the race for a semi-final spot in the ongoing 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup.
The Sri Lankan team was bowled out for 98 runs and managed to score only 2 runs. West Indies chased the target with 5 wickets and 23 balls to spare.
The loss makes Sri Lanka two wins from three matches, but with England Women and the West Indies still unbeaten, New Zealand Women and Scotland Women leading on net, their path to the semi-finals has become increasingly challenging.
“Actually, it’s a tragedy beyond words,” Atabatu said after the match. “I think I’ve played for the national team for about 18 years and I’ve never had the chance to take my team to a World Cup semi-final.
“Although I have achieved many things personally, I think I have failed as a captain because it is a big pain for a player and now I have to live with that pain.”
He reflected on his innings, admitting that he should have shown more responsibility and composure in the conditions, while expressing deep regret for what he felt was a missed opportunity on the world stage.
“I think I tried my best but I should have played more responsibly today. If I had done that, we could have won this match. I am sorry. I don’t want to blame anyone. I have a lot of responsibility as a player, a captain and an experienced cricketer.
“So I’m very sad. I feel like I lost my last chance.”
Attabatu, now 36 and appearing in his tenth T20 World Cup, has reflected his future in form, with the next edition scheduled for 2028 in Pakistan.
“For now, I can’t give any explanation,” he said. “I’m 36, so fitness and everything will be taken into consideration. I’m trying my best to maintain my fitness and skill level.
“If the team wants me, I will play in the future, but my performance and fitness will determine whether I continue.” 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup
Sri Lanka will conclude their Group 2 campaign against Ireland Women’s Cricket Team in Bristol on June 23, before taking on the West Indies again in Manchester on June 26.