West Indies Women 77/5 in 12.3 Overs | West Indies vs Sri Lanka Live Score, Women’s T20 World Cup: Vishmi Gunaratne backs Lanka to build on New Zealand upset against West Indies

Opening batsman Vishmi Gunaratne highlighted the importance of the batting department’s contribution in the win over New Zealand, but insisted that the team has already shifted its focus to the challenge ahead. According to the youngster, Sri Lanka made full use of three days of practice to establish their plans and preparations before arriving in Bristol.

Gunaratne also revealed the figures that shaped his cricketing journey. Indian superstar Virat Kohli remains his biggest inspiration, having admired him since childhood. In the dressing room, he drew on the motivation of every teammate and praised new coach Jamie Siddons for his positive outlook and emphasis on fearless, aggressive cricket.

Conditions at the County Ground presented an intriguing challenge. Pitch analysts Julia Price and Isobel Joyce observed 11 millimeters of grass on the surface with a slight dampness, factors that influenced West Indies captain Hayley Matthews to choose to bowl first. However, they suggest that the spin bowlers could ultimately be decisive because of the size and bounce available at the venue.

Despite losing the toss, Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu expressed confidence in his side while warning against complacency. Although Sri Lanka had beaten the West Indies in the Caribbean earlier in the year, he emphasized that professional teams have to adapt to different venues and conditions.

With both sides chasing semi-final qualification, the Bristol clash promises to be one of Group B’s defining contests.