Sri Lanka Athletics will send its largest team ever to the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing. Men’s and women’s 4×400 meters relay teams have been selected to compete against powerhouse nations. Juniors will gain crucial experience while the nation faces challenges due to the absence of top sprinter Aruna Dharshana. Other athletes will also participate in individual events.
Sri Lanka Athletics is preparing to make a significant impact at the upcoming World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China, by fielding its largest contingent ever. The country has received an invitation to include both men’s and women’s 4×400 meters relay teams to replace absent sprint powerhouses in this global event. Leading the men’s relay team is Kalinga Kumarage, who will mentor junior sprinters in this prestigious competition.
Team selection for the relays was based on performances in the recent second selection trial. Key athlete Aruna Dharshana will miss the Championships due to commitments in Australia, but his absence offers junior athletes the chance for valuable experience against established teams from the USA, Jamaica, Hungary, Nigeria, and China.
The men’s 4×400 meters relay team comprises Kumarage, S.B.R. Madushan, Sadew Rajakaruna, and Omel Shashintha. Notably, Rajakaruna recently set a national junior record, showcasing the potential of the younger athletes on this global stage. Isuru Lakshan serves as the reserve for the men’s team.
In the women’s category, Asian medallist Nadeesha Ramanayake leads the team alongside promising juniors Nishendra Harshani, Sayuri Lakshima, and Jayeshi Uththara, with Jithmi Wijetunga as the reserve. The competition will be fierce, including challengers from China, India, USA, Australia, and Poland.
Additional representation from Sri Lanka includes hurdler Kaveesha Bandara and sprinter Chamod Yodasinghe, who qualified for individual events based on World Athletics rankings. A total of 576 athletes from 127 countries will compete, highlighting the international scale of the event.
Sri Lanka’s participation in the World Indoor Championships showcases its commitment to developing athletic talent despite challenges due to absent top athletes. With a youthful team and enhanced opportunities for junior sprinters, Sri Lanka aims to build a strong competitive presence against global powers. This event not only provides invaluable experience but also positions the country for future international competitions.
Original Source: island.lk
