Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara elected BASL President

Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara, a former schools boxing champion, emerged victorious in the election for the President of the Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) during the annual general meeting held on 21 May.

Bandara secured 10 votes, defeating his opponent Wasantha Kumara who received just five votes.

He takes over from Dian Gomes, who dedicated over two decades to the development of boxing in Sri Lanka.

The election process was overseen by a three-member Election Committee led by Gen. Jagath Jayasuriya (rtd) appointed by the Ministry of Sports. Interestingly this election also marked as the first BASL election in more than 20 years.

Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara, aged 40, currently holds the position of Honorary Consul General of Sri Lanka in Guinea. He began his boxing career at Medirigiya Central College and Royal College, Polonnaruwa, winning his first match at the LV Jayaweera inter-school boxing meet. Bandara has also made a name for himself as a boxing coach in Guinea.

In a statement, Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara expressed his desire to unite all boxing enthusiasts to work towards the development of boxing in Sri Lanka. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and support from the boxing community to achieve their goals and bring honor to the country.

Meanwhile, Former Sri Lanka boxing captain and South Asian Games medalist DIG Saman Gunaratna was elected as the Secretary, defeating Lt Col Hemantha Weerasinghe (rtd).
Gunaratna highlighted the team’s commitment to creating opportunities for young boxers to excel nationally and internationally. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and reviving the glory of boxing with the assistance of the Tri-Services.

New office-bearers:

President: Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara

Vice Presidents: Eric Perera and Commander Udaya Kumaratunga

Secretary: DIG Saman Gunaratna

Asst Secretary: Brig. Kasun Adhikari

Treasurer: Amila Randika Dissanayaka

Asst Treasurer: Vanoj Dharshana Premachandra