News

First Capital Announces Platinum Sponsorship and Steps onto the Rugby Field with CR&FC

Published

1 year ago

December 2, 2023

Editor

First Capital Holdings PLC, a Janashakthi Group Company, proudly announces its partnership with the Ceylonese Rugby & Football Club [CR&FC] as the Platinum Sponsor for the upcoming rugby season. This collaboration marks First Capital’s first venture into the rugby realm through its association with CR&FC, with aims of fostering the growth of rugby in Sri Lanka, which boasts a large following. CR&FC, with its illustrious 100-year legacy in Sri Lankan Rugby, stands as a testament to the country’s rich Rugby heritage, having produced exceptional players who have represented the nation. In line with this legacy, the club has a visionary plan to establish a Rugby academy in the future. First Capital is proud to partner with this exceptionally strong team and will support CR&FC through yet another successful Rugby season.

By partnering with CR&FC, one of the greatest Rugby clubs in Sri Lanka, First Capital looks forward to uplifting one of the nation’s most passionately followed sports. As both dynamic organisations place a strong emphasis on ‘Performance First’ this partnership is destined to reach new heights with countless benefits for all.

Randinith Madanayake, Head of Marketing at First Capital, emphasised the significance of this partnership, stating, “At First Capital, our guiding principle is ‘Performance First.’ Partnering with CR&FC, a club synonymous with on-field excellence, allows us to extend this ethos to the wider community and showcase our commitment to sports in Sri Lanka during what has been a particularly difficult season. We believe Rugby has a promising future in Sri Lanka and are committed to fostering excellence in the sphere of Sri Lankan sports. First Capital is also committed to supporting the financial awareness of athletes. This sponsorship not only represents a pivotal step towards fostering the holistic development of Rugby in Sri Lanka, but also represents a step towards improving the lives of all Sri Lankans through financial solutions. We firmly believe that financial empowerment is essential for this progress, and we are fully prepared to provide that support.”

With a strong emphasis on upholding stability, fostering a competitive advantage, and providing an exceptional customer experience, First Capital focuses on staying true to its ‘Performance First’ spirit. First Capital stands strong with robust fundamentals, dedicated teams, and the support of the Janashakthi Group, allowing it to weather challenging market cycles. The organization is actively expanding its reach and significance by embracing an evolving digital platform, bolstering its digital capabilities, and integrating its operations. These efforts are aimed at transforming client experiences, fostering operational efficiency, and driving overall growth & sustainability.

END.

About First Capital Holdings PLC:

First Capital Holdings PLC is a member of the Janashakthi Group, focused on delivering ‘Performance First’ through its operations as primary dealer, corporate finance advisory, wealth management and stock brokering.

With over four decades of expertise in providing capital market solutions, First Capital Holdings PLC is a listed full-service investment institution in Sri Lanka. First Capital Holdings PLC is rated [SL] A with Stable outlook by LRA.

The Board of Directors of First Capital Holdings PLC comprises of Nishan Fernando (Chairman), Manjula Mathews (Deputy Chairperson), Dilshan Wirasekara (Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer), Ramesh Schaffter, Minette Perera, Chandana de Silva and Nishan de Mel.

Cricket

Bangladesh to Tour Sri Lanka for Full-Fledged Series in June-July 2025

Published

2 days ago

May 7, 2025

Editor

Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed that the Bangladesh National Men’s Team will tour the island from June 13 to July 16, 2025, for a multi-format bilateral series featuring 2 Tests, 3 ODIs, and 3 T20Is.

The tour kicks off with the Test series, which begins on June 17 at Galle International Stadium, followed by the second Test from June 25 to 29 at the SSC in Colombo. This red-ball series will offer crucial preparation and exposure for both sides ahead of the upcoming ICC events.

Sri Lanka holds a dominant record in Test encounters, having won 20 out of 26 matches against Bangladesh. Bangladesh has managed just one win, with five Tests ending in draws. Their last Test series in April 2024 saw Sri Lanka claim a clean sweep in Bangladesh, 2-0.

The limited-overs leg begins with ODIs on July 2 and 5 at R. Premadasa Stadium, before the third match takes place on July 8 at Pallekele — all day-night games starting at 2:30 PM.

The action continues with the T20I series, starting July 10 in Pallekele, followed by matches in Dambulla (July 13) and a final showdown at R. Premadasa Stadium on July 16.

Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Tour Fixtures – 2025:

June 17–21: 1st Test – Galle
June 25–29: 2nd Test – SSC, Colombo
July 2: 1st ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
July 5: 2nd ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
July 8: 3rd ODI – Pallekele
July 10: 1st T20I – Pallekele
July 13: 2nd T20I – Dambulla
July 16: 3rd T20I – R. Premadasa Stadium

This tour promises exciting cricket as both teams aim to fine-tune their squads across formats.

Football

Sri Lanka Announces U19 Football Squad for SAFF Championship 2025

Published

3 days ago

May 6, 2025

Editor

The Football Federation of Sri Lanka has officially announced the Under-19 national squad for the SAFF U19 Championship 2025, featuring a blend of local talent and international prospects. The squad, comprising 23 promising young footballers, will represent the nation in the prestigious South Asian regional tournament scheduled to take place later this year.

The squad showcases a mix of school football stars from leading institutions in Colombo, Galle, Kinniya, and Negombo, along with Sri Lankan-origin players currently based in Australia and the United Arab Emirates. This strategic inclusion of overseas talent is expected to strengthen Sri Lanka’s chances of a deep run in the championship.

Sri Lanka U19 Squad for SAFF Championship 2025

Vijayaratnam Haris – St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
Senapala Nadal Aaron – Gateway International, Colombo
Mohamed Hafeef Akram – T. B. Jayah MV, Colombo
Suthakar Roisan Bright – St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
Aidan Francis Perera – Gateway International, Colombo
Mohamed Rizwan Mohamed Aashif – Zahira College, Colombo
Mohamed Shiras Mohamed Shahid – Zahira College, Colombo
Krawege Hirun Mirasha – Mahinda College, Galle
Kalinga Anupa Pabasara – Mahinda College, Galle
Mohamed Rikas Muhammed – Zahira College, Colombo
Mohamed Siddeek Mohamed Maziyad – Hameedia Al Husseine College
Abdul Hameed Mohammed Irfan – Al Ameen National School, Kinniya
Mohammadu Hussain Abdullah – Al Falah, Negombo
Silmy Mohamed Hussain – Hameedia Al Husseine College
Mohamed Ramlan Abdul Rahman – Hameedia Al Husseine College
Mohamed Faris Umar – Darussalam College
Kaleelullah Mohamed Katheem – Zahira College, Colombo
Edirisinghe Omith (Captain) – Australia
Nassim Abdallah Faiz – United Arab Emirates
Luckman Rashad Shihab – Royal College, Colombo
Zafarullah Zakariyya – Australia
Dassanayake Anuk Shahil – Gateway International College
Zawahir Ayman Riyas – Australia

Led by captain Edirisinghe Omith, the team will focus on showcasing Sri Lanka’s evolving football potential in a tournament that features South Asia’s best young talents. With preparations underway, the coaching staff is optimistic about the team’s chances to make a lasting impression.

Group Stage Fixtures (IST)

May 9, 7:30 PM – India U19 vs Sri Lanka U19

May 11, 7:30 PM – Sri Lanka U19 vs Nepal U19

Stay tuned to Sri Lankan Sports TV for exclusive updates, match previews, and player highlights as Sri Lanka embarks on its U19 SAFF Championship journey.

Cricket

Sri Lanka Soars to Fourth in ICC ODI Rankings After Remarkable Year

Published

4 days ago

May 5, 2025

Editor

Sri Lanka has climbed to 4th place in the latest ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings, marking a major achievement in the team’s ongoing revival in international cricket. This surge, confirmed after the International Cricket Council’s annual update, reflects a year of consistent and impressive performances.

The upward shift in rankings saw Sri Lanka gain five valuable rating points, pushing them past powerhouse teams like Pakistan and South Africa. Now trailing only India, Australia, and England, Sri Lanka has re-established itself as a major contender in the One Day International (ODI) format.

Key Factors Behind Sri Lanka’s Rise in ODI Rankings

This rankings boost has been fueled by a string of dominant series wins, especially at home. Victories against top-tier teams such as India and Australia have been pivotal. Sri Lanka’s bowling unit has shown exceptional control and discipline, while the batting lineup has evolved into a reliable force, capable of adapting to various match situations.

The leadership of head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and captain Charith Asalanka has been central to this transformation. Jayasuriya’s experience and aggressive tactical approach have revitalized the team, while Asalanka’s calm leadership and key contributions with the bat have earned him praise as a future great.

Youth and Experience Creating a Winning Combination

Emerging stars like Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Janith Liyanage have provided fresh energy and depth. Their seamless integration alongside veterans has created a balanced and confident unit.

With ICC global tournaments on the horizon, this momentum places Sri Lanka in a strong position to challenge the world’s best. The team’s rise to fourth in the ICC ODI rankings is more than just a number — it’s a testament to their growing belief and ambition on the world stage.