BANGKOK, Thailand, April 22, 2025 (ePRESS) – The Sri Lanka women’s baseball team left the island on Monday with high hopes and determination, as they prepare to compete in the BFA IV Women’s Baseball Asian Championship 2025 Qualifier to be held in Bangkok, Thailand, from April 23 to 29.
The championship will feature eight competitive nations – host Thailand, Malaysia, Pakistan, India, Iran, Cambodia, Indonesia and Sri Lanka – fighting for a place in the main tournament.
The Sri Lankan squad, led by experienced captain Niluka Priyadarshana of the Sri Lanka Army, consists of 19 talented players and four officials. These young women, many of whom have risen through local clubs and military-backed teams, are set to represent the country on one of Asia’s biggest women’s baseball stages.
“This is a big opportunity. We’re ready to give our best and make Sri Lanka proud,” said captain Niluka Priyadarshana before departure at the Bandaranaike International Airport. The team, clad in national colors, received blessings from officials and supporters who gathered to wish them luck.
Among the squad are powerful hitters and quick runners such as Nuwanthika Samanmalee, Nawanjalee Basnayake, and Pramudi Nimsara. Players like Aloka Dissanayake and Sasikala Perera are known for their sharp fielding and calm under pressure. The team also features upcoming talents including Yasintha Jeewanthi, Himasha Karunarathna, and the Navodya sisters – Nethmi and Hiruni – who are expected to add youthful energy to the lineup.
The full squad includes:
Nuwanthika Samanmalee, Nawanjalee Basnayake, Aloka Dissanayake, Pramudi Nimsara, Niluka Priyadarshana (Captain), Wathsala Senevirathna, Yoshana Balasuriya, Dilani Dissanayake, Sasikala Perera, Dinusha Samarakoon, Chathuri Wickramasinghe, Pramodya Gimhani, Gayani Bandara, Himasha Karunarathna, Nethmi Navodya, Adithi Randeni, Hiruni Navodya, Yasintha Jeewanthi, Nuwani de Silva.
Anila Perera, a senior official in Sri Lanka Baseball, heads the delegation, with Chamath Shrenika serving as Team Manager. The coaching responsibilities lie with Vihanga de Silva and Malindu Hewage, both known for their modern training methods and player-first approach.
“We’ve prepared for this moment for months,” said coach Malindu Hewage. “The players have shown incredible dedication, and we believe they are ready to compete at the highest level.”
Sri Lanka’s women’s baseball has been steadily growing, though it often receives less attention than other sports. This tournament gives the team a chance not only to qualify for the main championship but also to bring attention to the potential of women’s baseball in the island nation.
Facing Thailand, Malaysia, and Pakistan will not be easy, as each team brings a different playing style and strength. But the Sri Lankan side is confident.
“We’re not just going to participate – we’re going to compete,” said manager Chamath Shrenika.
The first match will be played on April 23, and the Sri Lankans hope to start strong in their quest to reach the next level of Asian women’s baseball.
