Who Is Gunalan Kamalini? Meet India’s Latest T20I Debutant
India’s dominant run in the women’s T20I series against Sri Lanka concluded on a high note with the international debut of Gunalan Kamalini, a 17-year-old left-handed wicketkeeper-batter widely regarded as one of India’s brightest young cricketing prospects.
Making her first appearance in international cricket at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kamalini scored a composed 12 runs off 12 balls, striking two boundaries. While her innings ended early in the fifth over, it marked the beginning of a promising international journey during a series that India had already sealed with a commanding 4–0 lead.
A Debut in a One-Sided Contest
Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu won the toss and opted to bowl first in what was a dead-rubber fixture. Kamalini walked in with confidence, showcasing her ability to rotate strike and find boundaries. She was eventually bowled by Kavisha Dilhari, giving Sri Lanka their second breakthrough, but her brief knock left a positive impression.
Though the match result was secondary, Kamalini’s debut symbolised India’s growing depth and focus on youth development.
Rising Through the Ranks
Kamalini’s rise to the senior national team has been swift and well-earned. She was one of India’s standout performers at the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025 held in Malaysia.
During the tournament, she scored 143 runs in seven innings, averaging 35.75 with a strike rate of 104.37. Her tally included two half-centuries, making her India’s second-highest run-scorer and the tournament’s third overall. Her calm temperament and ability to anchor innings drew praise from coaches and selectors alike.
Early Impact in the Women’s Premier League
Kamalini’s talent was also recognised at the franchise level. She made her Women’s Premier League (WPL) debut on February 18, 2025, playing for Mumbai Indians against Gujarat Giants at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara.
In a memorable start, she hit a boundary off the very first ball she faced, contributing to Mumbai’s thrilling five-wicket win in the third edition of the WPL. Her fearless approach and technical clarity stood out despite her young age.
Ahead of the WPL 2026 mega auction, Mumbai Indians retained Kamalini for ₹50 lakh, underlining the franchise’s long-term faith in her abilities. The fourth edition of the league is scheduled to take place from January 9 to February 5, 2026, with matches split between DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, and Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara.
India’s Dominance Sets the Stage
India’s comprehensive performance against Sri Lanka created the perfect environment for Kamalini’s debut. The hosts won:
- The first T20I by 8 wickets
- The second by 7 wickets
- The third by 8 wickets with 40 balls remaining
- The fourth by 30 runs, sealing a 4–0 series lead
Such dominance allowed India to test its bench strength and introduce young talent without pressure.
Looking Ahead to the World Stage
With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 scheduled to be held in England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, Kamalini’s emergence comes at a crucial time. Her left-handed batting, sharp wicketkeeping skills, and fearless strokeplay make her a strong contender for future selections.
At just 17, Gunalan Kamalini represents the next generation of Indian women’s cricket—one built on confidence, skill, and the ability to perform on the big stage.
