Sri Lanka is set to field three formidable players in the upcoming 19th Asian Games, scheduled to take place later this month in China. According to the squash draw, Sri Lanka’s top-ranked player, Ravindu Laksiri, has been seeded 11th in the Asian Games squash competition, increasing hopes for a medal win.
Mixed Doubles partners, Shamil Wakeel and Women’s Junior National Champion Chanithma Sinaly, a Commonwealth Games 2022 Plate Championship winner, also hold strong prospects for clinching medals, as stated by Sri Lanka Squash President Dhammika Wijesundra.
Ravindu Laksiri, a promising talent, is expected to shine in the Singles events, given his track record of defeating top players in PSA international tournaments over the past year. Both Sinaly and Wakeel have previously secured victory in the Commonwealth Games Plate Championship in 2022.
Speaking about Laksiri’s preparations, President Dhammika Wijesundra noted, “Ravindu is in excellent condition, receiving training from Pakistani coach Rehman Gul and Fitness Coach Ashan Gamlath. He is mentally strong and enjoys comprehensive support from the Federation and our sponsors. With the right mindset, we believe we can secure medals in the Men’s Singles event.”
Under the guidance of Pakistan coach Rehman Gul, and Fitness Coach Ashan Gamlath, the players undergo rigorous morning fitness training and evening squash sessions. Sri Lanka Squash’s National Fitness coach, Ashan Gamlath, who formerly worked as a qualified Tennis Fitness Coach, has been supervising their fitness regimen since 2018, having been hired during President Dhammika Wijesundara’s tenure.
Chanithma Sinaly is a student of Sirimavo Balika Vidyalaya, while Ravindu Laksiri and Shamil Wakeel are alumni of DS Senanayake College. The trio will be accompanied to the Asian Games by Sri Lanka Squash Vice President Group Captain Eranda Geeganage, who will serve as the Team Manager.
The Federation enjoys strong support from Brandix, which covers the monthly salary of coach Rehman Gul and provides all the sports attire required for the Asian Games.
SAJEEWA JAYAKODY