Sri Lanka is set to take on Thailand in a crucial AFC Asian Cup Qualifier today. With history favoring Thailand in past encounters, the Sri Lankan squad will look to turn the tide and secure a positive result.

Sri Lanka has struggled in previous meetings, losing all five of their last encounters against Thailand, including a 2-0 defeat in their most recent clash in 2022. However, with a revamped squad and fresh motivation, they aim to challenge their higher-ranked opponents.

Thailand, known for its structured play and attacking prowess, will be looking to continue its dominance. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, still in the rebuilding phase, will need a strong defensive display and tactical discipline to stand a chance.

Can Sri Lanka pull off an upset and make a statement on the continental stage? Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis.

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Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan, a key figure in global cricket, is facing legal issues back home. A Dhaka court has ordered the seizure of his assets as he battles fraud charges over bounced cheques worth $300,000.

Shakib, who was in Canada playing T20 cricket when Sheikh Hasina’s government was overthrown, has not returned to Bangladesh since. While he has not been charged for alleged ties to a violent crackdown, his links to the former regime make him a target of public anger.

Having played 71 Tests, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is, with 712 wickets to his name, Shakib remains a giant in cricket. However, his future—both on and off the field—hangs in the balance.

Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) has unveiled a 60-player national squad for their high-stakes Asia Rugby Championship (ARC) Top 4 playoff against Malaysia, set for April 19 under floodlights at Racecourse Ground, Colombo. The winner will join Hong Kong, South Korea, and the UAE in the ARC Top 4, making this a must-win encounter for Sri Lanka.

Squad Selection & Training Plans

The selected players will undergo medical examinations on April 9 at SLR headquarters, with any existing injuries needing to be disclosed. After medical assessments, the squad will enter an intensive training camp in Colombo, taking a short break from April 13-15 for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.

Sri Lanka’s final 30-player squad will be announced after medical evaluations to ensure a fully fit and competitive team. While Sri Lanka is just beginning preparations, Malaysia has already kicked off their training camp, potentially giving them an edge. However, playing on home turf under the Colombo lights gives Sri Lanka a strong advantage.

Squad Breakdown

The majority of the squad comes from Kandy SC, Havelock SC, and CR & FC, with Tarinda Ratwatte expected to lead the side under the guidance of head coach Sanath Martis.

Kandy SC Players:

Milan Weerasinghe, Malitha Wijesundara, Dilshad Fareed, Thilina Bandara, Tharindu Chathuranga, Dahan Wickramarchchi, Heshan Janson, Tharinda Ratwatte, Shahid Sumri, Kavindu Perera, Dinal Ekanayake, Dhanushka Ranjan.

CR & FC Players:

Senura Perera, Wenura Kodagoda, Naveen Marasinghe, Sohiru Anthony, Adeesha Weerathunga, Lasindu Karunathilaka, Omalka Gunarathna, Ravin De Silva, Thenuka Nanayakkara, Gamunu Chethiya, Zubair Dore.

Havelock SC Players:

Faiz Abdulla, Janindu Fernando, Shehan Silva, Azmir Fajudeen, Chathura Dilshan, Mohamed Rifan, Samuel Maduwantha, Sudesh Jayawickrama, Mushin Falil, Jayathu Rajarathna.

Other clubs contributing players include CH & FC, Police SC, Sri Lions SC, Army SC, Air Force SC, and Navy SC.

Aiming for ARC Top 4 Spot

With the opportunity to return to the top tier of Asian rugby, Sri Lanka will look to leverage home advantage and the experience of key players. However, long-term development remains a concern, as Sri Lanka Rugby still lacks a structured youth league and grassroots development system to nurture future talent.

Match Date: April 19, 2025

Venue: Racecourse Ground, Colombo

What’s at Stake? Winner qualifies for Asia Rugby Championship (ARC) Top 4