(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] In a significant development ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, UP Warriorz have made a move by signing star Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu as a replacement for the England pacer Lauren Bell. Athapaththu, who went unsold in the auction held last month, joins UP Warriorz for her base price of INR 30 lakh.
The decision came after Bell withdrew from the upcoming WPL season for reasons unknown. In response, UP Warriorz swiftly announced the acquisition Athapaththu as her replacement, as stated in the official media advisory from WPL.
“English fast bowler Lauren Bell has withdrawn from the upcoming season of the TATA Women’s Premier League 2024 and UP Warriorz have named Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu as a replacement for Bell,” the statement said.
Athapaththu, a veteran all-rounder known for her powerful hitting, brings a wealth of experience with over 120 T20I games. Her impressive T20I record includes 2,651 runs at an average of 22.65 and a strike rate of 106.20, featuring one century and eight fifties. She has also proven to be a valuable asset with the ball, securing 40 wickets in 65 innings at an economy of 6.70 and an average of 29.67.
The WPL media advisory highlighted Athapaththu’s distinction as the only Sri Lankan woman to score a century in T20Is, emphasizing her attacking batting style. The decision to sign her for the base price underscores the team’s strategic vision.
“Among the most powerful hitters in the game, the Lankan captain is also one of the most experienced players, having featured in over 120 T20Is. Known for her attacking batting, Chamari is the only Lankan woman to have scored a century in T20Is. She has been signed for her base price of INR 30 lakh,” the statement added.
As excitement builds for the upcoming WPL season scheduled to commence on 23rd February, UP Warriorz will kick off their campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore on 24th February in Bengaluru.