Sri Lanka will compete in the World Indoor Athletics Championships with its largest team to date, including men’s and women’s 4×400 metres relay teams. Kalinga Kumarage leads the men’s team while Nadeesha Ramanayake captains the women’s. Key athlete Aruna Dharshana will miss the event due to commitments in Australia. Other participants include Kaveesha Bandara and Chamod Yodasinghe in individual events.
Sri Lanka is preparing to present its largest contingent at the World Indoor Athletics Championships this week. Following an invitation from World Athletics, Sri Lanka will field both men’s and women’s 4×400 metres relay teams at the event commencing in Nanjing, China. This inclusion provides an excellent opportunity for younger athletes amidst the absence of several sprinting powerhouses.
Sprinter Kalinga Kumarage will lead the men’s relay team comprised of S.B.R. Madushan, Sadew Rajakaruna, and Omel Shashintha. Despite national fitness hurdles, this competition paves the way for junior sprinters who recently showcased impressive performances. The reserve member for the men’s relay is Isuru Lakshan.
The absence of the leading sprinter Aruna Dharshana, who is competing in Australia, presents challenges for the team. His decision to fulfill his commitments abroad prior to returning has the potential to affect Sri Lanka’s overall performance at the Championships.
In the women’s division, Nadeesha Ramanayake will spearhead the team alongside newcomers Nishendra Harshani, Sayuri Lakshima, and Jayeshi Uththara. Jithmi Wijetunga will serve as the reserve. They are set to compete against formidable teams such as the USA, Australia, and China.
Additionally, Sri Lanka will be represented by individual athletes: hurdler Kaveesha Bandara and sprinter Chamod Yodasinghe. Their participation has been secured through World Athletics event rankings. The championships will see a total of 576 athletes from 127 countries, including 264 women and 312 men, competing together.
Sri Lanka’s participation in the World Indoor Athletics Championships will showcase its largest-ever team, featuring both relay squads for men and women. With Kalinga Kumarage leading the men’s team and Nadeesha Ramanayake at the helm of the women’s squad, the event promises to be an exciting opportunity for junior athletes. Despite the absence of key competitors, the teams aim to make a significant impact in Nanjing against strong international contenders.
Original Source: island.lk
