Connect with us

News

Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara elected BASL President

Published

on

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

Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

Cricket

Chamindu Wickramasinghe’s bowling action under scrutiny?

Published

on

By

Sri Lankan fast bowler Chamindu Wickramasinghe has come under the spotlight after his bowling action was officially reported as suspicious during a recent domestic encounter.

The incident occurred in a match of the National Super League held from April 6 to 9, where the Dambulla side faced Colombo. Wickramasinghe, representing Dambulla, drew attention from match officials, prompting concerns over the legality of his action.

The on-field umpires, Deepal Gunawardena and Ravindra Wimalasiri, made the report in accordance with standard procedures. Match referee Manoj Mendis also oversaw the process, ensuring that all regulations were followed.

Following the report, the matter has been referred to the Sri Lanka Cricket High Performance Unit for further assessment. Wickramasinghe may now be required to undergo biomechanical testing to determine whether his bowling action complies with the laws of the game.

Continue Reading

Cricket

Sri Lanka lasses continue to impress

Published

on

By

Sri Lanka Under-19 Women extended their impressive run in the Tri-Series with a composed four-wicket victory over Australia Women Under-19 cricket team at Bill Pippen Oval Today.

After being put in to bat, Australia U-19 struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. Ayla Johnson top-scored with 18 off 29 balls, while Alyssa Dermody added a quick 13. However, regular wickets halted their progress as they finished on a modest 91 for 9 in 20 overs. Limansa Thilakarathne led the bowling effort with an impressive 3 for 26, well supported by Chamudi Praboda, who claimed 2 for 21.

In response, Sri Lanka Women Under-19 cricket team chased down the target with 92 for 6 in 19.3 overs. Despite a few setbacks, Pramudi Methsara anchored the innings with an unbeaten 21 off 17 balls, while Danodya Sewmini contributed a steady 14. Australia’s Filippa Suesee (3 for 18) and Ira Aery (2 for 13) fought hard, but Sri Lanka held their nerve.

Continue Reading

News

Football Chief Jaswar Umar Enters Race for NOC Presidency

Published

on

By

Jaswar Umar, President of the Football Federation of Sri Lanka, has officially submitted his nomination to contest for the presidency of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.

Umar becomes the fourth candidate in the race, joining Shirantha Peiris, Deva Henry, and Asanga Seneviratne, who are also contesting for the top position in the country’s Olympic body.

His time as football chief has created divided opinions among sports professionals who evaluate his performance. On one hand, Sri Lanka’s national team has shown improvement in international results, including a rise in the FIFA rankings from 204 to 191, along with notable performances against stronger opposition.

However, his approach has also faced criticism. Stakeholders have raised concerns over the increased reliance on Sri Lankan-origin overseas players, with claims that it has limited opportunities for local talent. The long-term vision for developing youth and building grassroots football programs has become a subject of public inquiry.

Umar now aims to advance his career through NOC while he leads Sri Lankan football with both positive results and ongoing public criticism of his work.

The upcoming election will become a competitive battle because four candidates will vie for control of a key position which holds major power within the country’s sports system.

Continue Reading

Trending