News
Former Sports Minister Sentenced Over Sports Equipment Procurement Scandal
In a landmark ruling that underscores the need for accountability in sports administration, the Colombo High Court has sentenced former Sports Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and former Sathosa Chairman Nalin Fernando to 25 years, following their conviction in a high-profile corruption case linked to sports equipment procurement.

The charges stem from a controversial purchase made in the lead-up to the 2015 Presidential Election, where 14,000 Carrom boards and 11,000 checkers (Daam) boards were imported through Sathosa, a state-owned enterprise. These items, intended for distribution to sports clubs, were found to be part of a politically motivated misuse of public funds, causing a staggering loss of over Rs. 53 million to the government.
The verdict follows an extensive investigation and prosecution by the Bribery Commission, which presented compelling evidence showing how the two officials deliberately abused their powers for political gain. The court was told that the procurement was carried out without proper planning or transparent procedures, ultimately turning what should have been grassroots sports development into a tool of electoral manipulation.
The case was initially filed in 2019 under the Permanent High Court Trial-at-Bar, reflecting the serious nature of the allegations and the high level of public interest. Prosecutors argued that the act was a gross violation of public trust and an example of how political interference has historically undermined the development of sports in Sri Lanka.
This judgment sends a strong signal that corruption within the sports sector will not be tolerated. It also reignites public debate about the urgent need for transparency, long-term planning, and independent governance in Sri Lanka’s sports institutions. As the nation looks to build a clean and credible sports culture, this ruling may serve as a turning point in restoring integrity and discipline in sports administration.
Cricket
Sri Lanka Cricket to name a women’s cricket tournament under late ‘Gwen Herat.’
Sri Lanka Cricket decided to dedicate the ‘Major Club Women’s 50-Over Tournament’ in memory of the late Gwen Herat, the founding president of the Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Association.
This decision has been made in recognition of the outstanding service rendered by Mrs. Herat towards the founding of Women’s Cricket Association in the country.
It was under her leadership that the Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Association was established in 1997, where she served as its founding president.
Accordingly, in memory of her from 2026 onwards, the Major Club Women’s 50-Over
Tournament will be named the Gwen Herat Memorial Trophy.
“The significant role played by the late Mrs. Gwen Herat in laying the foundation for women’s cricket is well remembered by the cricketing fraternity. By naming a tournament in her honor, Sri Lanka Cricket aims to preserve her legacy for future generations,” said Mr. Bandula
Dissanayake.
Marking this significant initiative, the family of Mrs. Gwen Herat presented a trophy to Sri Lanka Cricket, which will be awarded to the champions of future editions of the tournament.
The handover was carried out by Mrs. Herat’s family members, including her daughters, Shamarra Herat and Parveen Herat, and her son, Avancka Herat.
The Gwen Herat Memorial Trophy was officially handed over to Mr. Bandula Dissanayake, Honorary Secretary of Sri Lanka Cricket, in the presence of Mr. Ashley de Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket, and distinguished guests Mr. Chandra Schaffter and Mr. Hemaka Amarasuriya.
Mr. Chinthaka Edirimanne, Head of National Cricket Operations, and Mr. Upul Nawaratne
Bandara, Head of Marketing at SLC, also were present at the ceremony, which took place at SLC last week.
Cricket
Leadership Change Looms at Sri Lanka Cricket
Sri Lanka Cricket could be on the verge of a major leadership shake-up, with reports suggesting that President Shammi Silva is expected to resign from his post on Wednesday, potentially ending a seven-year tenure at the helm of the governing body.
According to a report published by Daily Mirror, Silva’s anticipated resignation follows a request from the government, signaling possible political involvement in the administration of the sport.
The report further indicates that former Member of Parliament and State Minister Eran Wickramaratne is likely to be appointed as the Interim President of Sri Lanka Cricket, should Silva step down as expected.
Silva, who was first elected to the position in February 2019, has maintained his leadership through multiple election victories, overseeing Sri Lanka Cricket during a period marked by both challenges and transitions.
While no official confirmation has yet been issued, the reported developments have already sparked widespread discussion within cricketing and political circles, raising questions about the future direction of the country’s cricket administration.
Athletics
Tharanga Claims Historic Gold in Nairobi with Record-Breaking Throw
Sri Lanka’s rising javelin sensation Rumesh Tharanga delivered a remarkable performance on the international stage, clinching gold at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi with a stunning meet record throw of 89.28 metres.
Competing against an elite field, Tharanga outshone some of the sport’s biggest names, including Olympic champion Thomas Röhler and Kenya’s celebrated Olympic silver medallist and world champion Julius Yego. His victory marks one of the most significant achievements in Sri Lankan athletics in recent years.
The triumph is further highlighted by Tharanga’s consistency, as this is his second throw exceeding 89 metres within a month. Such performances signal his growing dominance and position him firmly among the world’s top javelin throwers this season.
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