The organisers of the high profile Ceylon Masters International Badminton Championship, Ceylon Masters Badminton (CMB), expects more foreign shuttlers to compete at their sixth edition, which is slotted to be played between June 25th and 29th in Colombo. The President of CMB, Rohan de Silva, speaking to reporters in Colombo to brief about the 2026 edition, stressed on the growth of the Ceylon Masters International Badminton Championship during the previous five seasons has indicated a great interest among well-known foreign masters players.

“The CMB has had impressive number of inquiries about the Ceylon Masters International Badminton Championship 2026, notably from interested foreign participants. This shows how the competition has grown during the five years adhering to quality and international standards. The Ceylon Masters International Badminton Championship has now become an important tournament in the international masters’ badminton calendar and CMB is proud to have taken this competition to this level,” Rohan de Silva noted.

With a galaxy of master’s badminton players, both local and international, due to participate at the Ceylon Masters International Badminton Championship 2026, CMB are expecting to have no stone unturned to make the sixth edition a huge success. All arrangements are now underway to provide all participants the facilities required to conveniently access the venue and use the many amenities on site as they prepare to compete vigorously for honours and attractive prize money of USD 15,000.

“The Ceylon Masters International Badminton Championship is beyond just a competition. It assures Sri Lanka of extra tourist arrivals as players taking part during the weeklong competition usually come down with their families with the intention of spending extra time travelling around the country after the completion of the tournament. This is one aspect Sri Lanka could further develop with the government’s support,” Sumudu Kumarasinghe, the Secretary of CMB stated.

CMB stated that foreign entrants will be offered easy transport connections from the Bandaranaike International Airport to hotels in Colombo and other accommodation, as well as a shuttle service to the venue and back during the match days. This is a specialty that makes Colombo Masters International Badminton Championship one of the world’s leading masters competitions.

“There is another advantage, notably to the local masters players, who are unable to fulfil the desire to compete at international tournaments held elsewhere in the world. Sri Lanka has around over 1000 active masters shuttlers and the CMB competition is a great platform for them to gain international experience against high profile players from around the world,” explained Nishantha Jayamanne, a member of the organising committee as well as the CMB.

The Ceylon Masters International Badminton Championship 2026 will have the corporate backing from leading local entities such as McLarens Group and Prime Lands with Li-Ning, an international sports brand, continuing their commitment this season as well. CMB has made arrangements with Jetwing Travels to coordinate with logistical concerns for inbound travelling for foreign participants who stay beyond the competition and explore the country.

Former Member of Parliament Eran Wickramaratne has announced that he has accepted the role of Chairman of the newly established Sri Lanka Cricket Transformation Committee, following an invitation from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Minister of Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage.

In an official statement, Wickramaratne said the decision came after extensive discussions with former cricketers and key stakeholders in the sport. He confirmed that he assumed duties with effect from April 29.

He emphasized that the committee’s primary objective is to revive Sri Lanka’s cricketing legacy by restoring both pride and performance standards. Describing the appointment as an honour, Wickramaratne noted that he would be leading a team of nine individuals known for their integrity and professional experience.

The committee comprises a diverse group of experts, including former international cricketers and professionals from management and legal backgrounds. Members include Roshan Mahanama, Kumar Sangakkara, Thushira Radella, Sidath Wettimuny, Avanthi Colombage, Prakash Schaffter, Upul Kumarapperuma, and Dinal Philips.

Outlining the committee’s reform agenda, Wickramaratne identified two key focus areas. The first is the establishment of sound governance within Sri Lanka Cricket. This includes a complete overhaul of the existing governance framework, the introduction of a new constitution aligned with International Cricket Council (ICC) standards, and the implementation of strong transparency and anti-corruption measures aimed at rebuilding public trust.

The second pillar focuses on achieving excellence on the field. Plans include strengthening national teams through improved structural systems, upgrading facilities to world-class standards, and introducing performance-based incentives to help players consistently compete at the highest international level.

Wickramaratne also highlighted his longstanding connection to the sport, noting his involvement in cricket from school to club level. He described the role as both a privilege and a significant responsibility, adding that the committee is committed to delivering sustainable progress with the support and constructive feedback of cricket fans across the country.

Sri Lanka’s cricket administration has entered a period of transition after the government stepped in to take temporary control of the sport’s governing body.

Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage has accepted the resignation of Shammi Silva and the Executive Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket, marking a significant shift in leadership.

Following the resignations, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced that it would assume oversight of cricket administration under the authority granted by the Sports Law No. 25 of 1973. The decision places all operational and administrative matters of SLC under ministerial supervision with immediate effect.

Authorities indicated that the arrangement is temporary and part of a broader effort to stabilise the sport’s administration. A new committee is expected to be appointed in the coming days to examine existing issues and propose structural reforms aimed at improving governance and accountability.

The leadership’s decision to step down was communicated to the government earlier, prompting swift action to ensure continuity in the management of Sri Lanka’s most prominent sport.