Chamari Athapaththu Returns to Bat After Injury Scare in Women's ODI World Cup Clash Against England

Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu sparked a major injury scare during her side’s Women’s ODI World Cup clash against England in Colombo, after collapsing on the field early in the run chase. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Athapaththu returned to bat in the 25th over after the fall of Sri Lanka’s fourth wicket.

Athapaththu was stretchered off the field in the sixth over of the innings after appearing to suffer from severe cramps. She had just completed a single off Linsey Smith’s bowling, having dragged the ball to deep midwicket, when she began limping toward the non-striker's end. Moments after completing the run, she collapsed to the ground and remained face down until the Sri Lankan physio arrived.

Despite several minutes of on-field treatment and stretching, Athapaththu did not get back on her feet. Medical staff then brought out a stretcher to carry her off the field — a decision likely taken out of precaution, considering Sri Lanka’s demanding schedule ahead in the tournament and Athapaththu’s central role in the team.

The Sri Lankan skipper had earlier contributed with the ball, delivering five overs for 21 runs during England’s innings, which ended at 253 for 9. Nat Sciver-Brunt was the standout performer for England, scoring a crucial hundred to help set up the target of 254.

Humidity in Colombo has been intense in recent weeks, typical for this time of year, and it may have played a part in Athapaththu’s cramping. Notably, she had also been seen receiving extra stretching support during training the previous day, further suggesting lingering fitness concerns.

Despite the early scare, Athapaththu’s return to the crease underscored her importance to the Sri Lankan side and provided a much-needed boost in a high-stakes World Cup fixture.