Sri Lanka Women faced a major setback early in their innings during the 18th ODI of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 against South Africa Women at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The young opener Vishmi Gunaratne suffered a knee injury and had to retire hurt after showing great promise in her short stay at the crease.
How the Injury Happened
The incident occurred in the 5th over of the Sri Lankan innings. Vishmi Gunaratne was batting confidently, having scored 12 runs off 16 balls, including two boundaries.
Facing South African pacer Marizanne Kapp, Vishmi played the ball to mid-on and went for a quick single. The fielder at mid-on threw the ball toward the bowler’s end in an attempt for a run-out. Unfortunately, the throw missed the stumps and struck Vishmi directly on her left knee, causing immediate pain.
She fell to the ground clutching her knee, and the stadium went silent as the physio rushed in. After several minutes of on-field treatment, it was clear that she couldn’t continue. Vishmi was stretchered off the field amid applause from teammates and spectators, having shown bravery in trying to complete the run despite the injury.
Match Situation at the Time of Injury
At the time of the incident, Sri Lanka Women were 21/0 in 4.4 overs, having opted to bat first after winning the toss.
Here’s a summary of the early innings:
| Batter | Runs | Balls | Fours | Sixes | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vishmi Gunaratne | 12 | 16 | 2 | 0 | 75.00 |
| Chamari Athapaththu (C)** | 3 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 21.43 |
| Hasini Perera | 4* | 3 | 1 | 0 | 133.33 |
Fall of Wicket / Incident: Vishmi Gunaratne – Retired Hurt (Score 21/1, Over 4.4)
Bowling Summary (at that time):
| Bowler | Overs | Maidens | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marizanne Kapp | 3.0 | 0 | 10 | 0 | 3.33 |
| Masabata Klaas | 2.3 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 4.40 |
Impact on Sri Lanka’s Innings
The injury disrupted Sri Lanka’s early rhythm as the opening pair had looked composed against South Africa’s disciplined pace attack. Gunaratne’s departure meant that the team had to rely on Chamari Athapaththu and Hasini Perera to rebuild the innings.
Hasini Perera joined Athapaththu in the middle and played a few positive strokes, including a boundary through covers. However, the loss of momentum and uncertainty over Gunaratne’s return added pressure on the Sri Lankan side.
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Latest Update on Vishmi Gunaratne’s Condition
According to on-field commentary and visuals, Gunaratne appeared in visible distress and could not walk unaided. She was taken off the field on a stretcher for medical assessment.
Early indications suggest that the ball hit just below the pad on the side of her left knee, causing a painful bruise or possible ligament strain.
While an official medical update is awaited, Sri Lanka’s management stated during the live broadcast that her condition will be assessed after initial scans. Whether she can bat again later in the innings or feature in the next match will depend on the medical report.
Team Statements and On-Field Reactions
- Chamari Athapaththu, the Sri Lankan captain, looked concerned and was seen checking on her teammate as she left the field.
- Marizanne Kapp, the bowler involved in the incident, also walked up to Vishmi to express her concern.
- The commentators mentioned that “it was an unfortunate and accidental blow,” emphasizing how crucial Vishmi has been in Sri Lanka’s top order.
Sri Lanka’s Position in the Tournament
Sri Lanka Women entered this match still looking for their first win in the Women’s World Cup 2025, with two matches previously washed out due to rain and two losses. A solid start from the openers was key to their hopes of posting a big total against South Africa, who are chasing a semi-final berth.
Gunaratne’s injury is a major setback, especially given her consistent form at the top and ability to provide steady starts.
About Vishmi Gunaratne – Player Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vishmi Gunaratne |
| Age | 20 years |
| Role | Top-Order Batter |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed |
| ODI Matches | 28 |
| Runs Scored | 630 |
| Highest Score | 101 |
| Average | 23.00 |
| Strike Rate | 68.00 |
Gunaratne has been one of Sri Lanka’s most promising young batters, known for her calm technique and ability to rotate the strike. Her absence could significantly impact Sri Lanka’s middle-order stability in upcoming matches.
Conclusion
Vishmi Gunaratne’s unfortunate injury came at a crucial juncture for Sri Lanka Women in their must-win World Cup 2025 clash against South Africa. While the team will hope for her quick recovery, her absence could alter their batting dynamics in this game and possibly beyond.
The entire cricket fraternity extends best wishes for her speedy recovery, as the young star continues to be a vital part of Sri Lanka’s future in women’s cricket.
