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

1. Vijayaratnam Haris – St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
2. Senapala Nadal Aaron – Gateway International, Colombo
3. Mohamed Hafeef Akram – T. B. Jayah MV, Colombo
4. Suthakar Roisan Bright – St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
5. Aidan Francis Perera – Gateway International, Colombo
6. Mohamed Rizwan Mohamed Aashif – Zahira College, Colombo
7. Mohamed Shiras Mohamed Shahid – Zahira College, Colombo
8. Krawege Hirun Mirasha – Mahinda College, Galle
9. Kalinga Anupa Pabasara – Mahinda College, Galle
10. Mohamed Rikas Muhammed – Zahira College, Colombo
11. Mohamed Siddeek Mohamed Maziyad – Hameedia Al Husseine College
12. Abdul Hameed Mohammed Irfan – Al Ameen National School, Kinniya
13. Mohammadu Hussain Abdullah – Al Falah, Negombo
14. Silmy Mohamed Hussain – Hameedia Al Husseine College
15. Mohamed Ramlan Abdul Rahman – Hameedia Al Husseine College
16. Mohamed Faris Umar – Darussalam College
17. Kaleelullah Mohamed Katheem – Zahira College, Colombo
18. Edirisinghe Omith (Captain) – Australia
19. Nassim Abdallah Faiz – United Arab Emirates
20. Luckman Rashad Shihab – Royal College, Colombo
21. Zafarullah Zakariyya – Australia
22. Dassanayake Anuk Shahil – Gateway International College
23. 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.

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.

Chelsea delivered a powerful performance at Stamford Bridge to defeat newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool, strengthening their push for a Champions League spot next season.

The match began with a respectful guard of honour for the visitors, but Chelsea quickly turned the mood competitive. Enzo Fernandez opened the scoring in just the 3rd minute, capitalizing on Pedro Neto’s cross with a well-timed finish. From that moment, the Blues seized control.

Liverpool, having already secured the league title, fielded a rotated squad with six changes from the side that defeated Tottenham. The alterations seemed to cost them momentum, as they struggled to match Chelsea’s urgency in the early stages.

Chelsea doubled their advantage early in the second half when Cole Palmer’s clever dribble unsettled the Liverpool defence, leading to a chaotic moment in the box. Under pressure, Virgil van Dijk’s clearance attempt ricocheted off teammate Jarell Quansah and into their own net, gifting Chelsea a crucial second goal.

Though Liverpool rallied late, with substitute Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah squandering golden opportunities, Van Dijk pulled one back with a powerful header in the 85th minute. However, Palmer, who had earlier hit the post, sealed the win with a confident penalty in stoppage time after Quansah fouled Moises Caicedo.

Palmer, who hadn’t scored since January, was instrumental in all three goals and proved just how vital he is to Chelsea’s top-four ambitions. His return to form comes at the perfect moment ahead of their decisive clash against Newcastle next weekend.

Liverpool, meanwhile, showed signs of fatigue following their title celebrations. Despite the loss, their fans continued their joyous chants, proudly waving banners in honour of the club’s 20th league title. With the trophy presentation still to come at Anfield on the season’s final day, their focus now shifts to the celebrations rather than results.

Chelsea’s victory puts them level on points with Newcastle, trailing only on goal difference, making their upcoming encounter at St. James’ Park a pivotal battle for Champions League qualification.