Sri Lanka’s cricket sensation, Chamari Athapattu, has made history by ascending to the summit of the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings, surpassing England’s Nathalie Sciver and Brunt to claim the coveted top spot. With an impressive tally of 733 marks, Athapattu’s stellar performance has captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Athapattu’s remarkable feat comes on the heels of her outstanding display in the South Africa-Sri Lanka ODI series, where she propelled her team to a thrilling victory, levelling the three-match series in South Africa. In a monumental chase, Athapattu’s unbeaten 195 not only secured victory but also etched her name in the annals of women’s ODI history.
Her innings stands as the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI cricket, second only to Glenn Maxwell’s legendary 201 against Afghanistan in the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Athapattu’s breathtaking performance underscores her status as one of the finest talents in the cricketing world, setting a new standard for excellence in women’s cricket.
At 34 years old, Athapattu’s journey from her debut in 2009 to her current milestone is a testament to her unwavering dedication and remarkable skill. With 101 ODIs under her belt, she ranks among the top players in terms of both longevity and scoring prowess, cementing her legacy as a true cricketing icon for Sri Lanka.