ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy Schedule, Format and Groups

The ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy is set to unfold in the United Arab Emirates with a fully revised squad and an expanded competitive format. Sri Lanka will be represented by a 14-member squad led by Harshitha Samarawickrama, who takes over captaincy duties from Chamari Athapattu, who remains on loan in the WBBL.

The selection panel has focused on squad depth and returnees. Sathya Sandeepani marks a notable comeback to the T20I ranks after a six-year hiatus, while Vishmi Gunaratne and Nilakshi de Silva return to international duty following their Asian Games absence. Malki Madaraj’s inclusion adds valuable pace and experience.

The tournament has grown substantially, now hosting ten national teams instead of five. The playing field features established cricketing nations Ireland, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe alongside Sri Lanka. Associate and regional teams competing include the UAE, defending titleholders Thailand, the Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, and Scotland.

Sri Lanka’s Group A campaign begins on November 12 against Ireland. The team will then take on Scotland, Papua New Guinea, and the UAE in the following days before heading into the knockout pathway.

The competition will be staged across Ajman’s Caravan Sports Club and Seven Districts Sports Club. Following the group stages, the top three finishers from each section will progress to the Super Six phase on November 20, 22, and 23. Teams will face opposition from the alternate group to determine the finalists.

The championship will conclude with the final on November 25, where the top two sides from the Super Six will battle for the trophy.

The full Sri Lankan roster features Harshitha Samarawickrama (captain), Sanjana Kavindi, Imesha Dulani, Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kewisha Dilhari, Nilakshi de Silva, Kaushinya Nuthyangana, Sathya Sandeepani, Roshmika Sewwandi, Sugandika Kumari, Chamudi Prabodha, Malki Madaraj, and Chetana Wimalathne.