CHAMARI'S ARMY

Like Pakistan, Sri Lanka have never been beyond the first round of this competition, despite having taken part in all six previous edition.

If that is to change this time around, much will depend on Chamari Atapattu, the opening batsman who comes into this tournament in fine form. In six games against Australia late last year, she struck two centuries.

She will need to produce more of the same if her side is to stand a realistic chance of reaching the knockout stages for the first time.

LOSING STREAK

Sri Lanka come into this T20 World Cup on the back of a taxing year. They played nine T20Is against three countries – South Africa, England and Australia.

Chamari Atapattu’s charges were beaten in all nine. The only way, however, is up. Their group game against Bangladesh might take on added significance.

RECENT RESULTS (most recent last - to Feb 1): LLLLLLLLLL

THE WAIT CONTINUES

Like Pakistan, who have also appeared at every edition of the tournament, Sri Lanka are still awaiting their first trip beyond the group stage.

With such a great reliance on Chamari Atapattu, it seems unlikely that the time is now. Her side has won just seven of 23 matches to date in the competition.

In Atapattu’s case, her record at T20 World Cups could also do with some improving; she is a far better player than one that has made just one single half century in 20 innings.

WORLD CUP RECORD

2009: First round

2010: First round

2012: First round

2014: First round

2016: First round

2018: First round