Nevindu Lakman, a talented young squash player from Sri Lanka, has made history by becoming the first ever Sri Lankan to take part in the Casa Capital Mara Squash League, the inaugural Franchise Squash League. Held at Braeburn School in Nairobi, Kenya, this tournament, which is based on a franchise system, represents a major achievement for Lakman and for squash in Sri Lanka.
Despite the absence of Sri Lanka’s top-ranked player, Ravindu Laksiri, who was competing in the World Squash Championship Qualifying Round in Malaysia, Lakman seized the opportunity as the sole representative from Sri Lanka.
The Casa Capital Mara Squash League featured eight teams and attracted a total of 48 players from various countries, including Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, India, and Kenya. Lakman emerged as a leading player in his team, leaving a lasting impression with his skill and competitive spirit amidst tough competition from players across Africa and beyond.
This league, held every six months in Kenya, offers a platform for squash players from around the world to compete and get experience improving their abilities.
With players auctioned off and substantial prize money at stake, the tournament provides both excitement and opportunities for the leading squash players to come together and celebrate the sport on a global scale.
The Casa Capital Mara Squash League follows a unique format where players are auctioned to teams. The allure of the tournament was further enhanced by the substantial prize money on offer, with the winners’ purse totaling an impressive Kenyan Shillings 1.7 million.
Sajeewa Jayakody
