Connect with us

News

Nettasinghe reaches Dove Saipan International quarters

Published

on

Sri Lanka’s top seed shuttler, Viren Nettasinghe, booked his berth in the quarter-finals of the Dove Saipan International 2024, which is underway at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium in Saipan, with a resounding 2-0 win against AryamannTandon in the Round of 16 on Wednesday.

Nettasinghe, the top seed of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Grade 3 International Challenge Tournament, overcame Tandon in straight sets, after the Indian staged some early resistance in both sets. Nettasinghe claimed the first set 21-18 and went on to dominate the second set before sealing the pre-quarter-final game with a 21-15 win.
Tandom showed some promise after his straight (21-15, 21-13) win against South Korea’s Pyeong Gang Choi in the previous round to set up a Round of 16 clash against Nettasinghe, who faced a stiffer opponent in Chi Ting Chen in the previous round.

Cheng of Chinese Taipei, who impressed in the Round of 64 against Ean Camacho of the host country, continued his form to trouble Nettasinghe. But the in-form Olympian thwarted all obstacles to shatter Cheng in straight sets, 23-21 and 21-18 after a close encounter, setting his sight on the title in his last international appearance prior to the Paris Olympics.

Nettasinghe is set to take on Ryoma Muramoto of Japan in the quarter-finals in the six-day competition conducted by Northern Marianas Badminton Association. Nettasinghe, the first and only Sri Lankan to earndirect qualification for the Paris Olympics, also makes history for his country by becoming the youngest badminton player to represent the nation at the Olympics.

Earlier this week the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka named Nettasinghe as one of the flag-bearers at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics alongside DilhaniLekamge, the female javelin thrower.

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