Here’s why Smriti Mandhana is not playing the 5th and final T20I, This player replaces her and makes her debut

Smriti Mandhana rested for fifth T20I as India test bench strength, 17-year-old G Kamalini replaces her, makes international debut match

New Delhi: The fifth and final T20 match between the Indian and Sri Lankan women’s teams is being played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. India has already secured an unassailable 4-0 lead in this five-match series. The team, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, is aiming for a clean sweep to finish the series. The Indian team has made two significant changes for the final match.

Two Changes in the Final Match

For the last match of the series, the team management decided to rest some players. Star opener Smriti Mandhana and fast bowler Renuka Singh Thakur have been rested for this match. Young players have been given a chance in their place to test the bench strength.

G Kamalini Makes Her Debut

Just 17 years old, G Kamalini made her T20 International debut in this match. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur presented her with the debut cap. Kamalini has become the 90th player to represent India in this format. She has been included in the playing XI in place of Smriti Mandhana and is likely to open the innings with Shafali Verma.

Sneh Rana Returns to the Team

All-rounder Sneh Rana has also returned to the team for the final T20. She has been included in the playing XI, keeping in mind her experience and balance, which strengthens both the bowling and batting departments.

Harmanpreet Kaur’s Statement

After the toss, captain Harmanpreet Kaur said that the team wants to win this match with the same momentum they started the series with. She stated that this match is important and the team aims to perform at its best. She also confirmed the two changes, mentioning Kamalini’s debut and Sneh Rana’s return.

India’s Playing XI

Shafali Verma, G Kamalini, Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper), Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, Arundhati Reddy, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sri Charani

Sri Lanka’s Playing XI

Hasini Perera, Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Imesha Dulani, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Rashmika Sewwandi, Kaushani Nuthyangana (wicketkeeper), Nimasha Madushani, Inoka Ranaweera, Malki Madara

Story Highlights

1. India has already taken a 4-0 lead in the series
2. Smriti Mandhana and Renuka Singh Thakur rested for the final T20
3. 17-year-old G Kamalini makes her T20 International debut
4. Sneh Rana returns to the Indian team