Chamari Athapaththu, one of the most well-known women's all-rounders in Sri Lanka, believes that playing franchise cricket is not just about the money but also about gaining new experience and talents. She also rates the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) as one of the best franchise leagues in the world.

“Franchise cricket is not all about money, it's about learning new skills, culture and getting experience. I know many women players from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka who are keen to feature in WBBL due to the standard and pace of cricket over here. I would urge franchises to give more South Asian girls an opportunity to shine in WBBL.

“WBBL is one of the best franchise leagues and I will take this knowledge to the young players of Sri Lanka. Kavish Dilhari, Vishmi and Harshita from Sri Lanka should be in world's franchise leagues.”

Athapaththu also reveals that Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is also planning to organize a T10 Women’s League soon. “Cricket Sri Lanka is also planning to organize a T10 Women's league in Sri Lanka in December. It would likely be a four-franchise based tournament,” She added.

Athapaththu started the WBBL very well as she was adjudged man of the match in Sydney Thunder’s only match till now. She reveals that she’s enjoying the leadership of England’s Heather Knight in the team. “I have a good relationship with England's Heather knight and not getting any banter from Heather Knight. She is controlling the squad very well here in Sydney Thunders,” she further said.