Sri Lanka’s boxing scene is witnessing a historic revival under the leadership of Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara, who assumed the presidency of the Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) in May 2024.
In just a few months, Bandara’s proactive leadership and visionary strategies have breathed new life into the sport, creating hope for a brighter future and dynamic approach, coupled with a clear vision, has revitalised the sport and brought Sri Lankan boxing back into the spotlight.
Bandara’s leadership has been marked by bold decisions, personal investment and an unwavering commitment to delivering on his promises, ensuring that both athletes and the sport itself receive the support needed to thrive.
Within months, Bandara’s efforts have started to yield remarkable results as Sri Lanka’s boxers have excelled on the international stage, winning medals at prestigious tournaments such as the Constitution Day Tournament in Seychelles, where the team clinched six medals, including two golds, and the 14th Taipei City Cup where boxers brought home five medals, including two golds.
The most significant breakthrough came at the Asian Elite Boxing Championships, where Sri Lanka ended a 37-year medal drought with an inspiring performance from its largest-ever contingent of 12 boxers. The achievements underscored Bandara’s strategy of providing international exposure to Sri Lankan athletes, helping them gain valuable experience and confidence to compete at the highest levels.
Bandara’s commitment to expanding boxing’s reach beyond traditional urban centres, has been another hallmark of his tenure. Hosting the Layton Cup semifinals and finals at the scenic Negombo Beach Park attracted new audiences, blending sports and tourism.
Upcoming championships in Kandy and Galle are part of his mission to make boxing a truly national sport. By moving events out of the capital and into new locations, Bandara is inspiring local talent and bringing boxing closer to communities that previously had little access to the sport.
Bandara has also prioritised improving the sport’s governance and infrastructure. His administration has ensured transparency by introducing a 1-star referees and judges course, ensuring fair play and professional officiating. Moreover, his efforts to build Sri Lanka’s reputation internationally include bidding to host events such as the 2025 Asian U22 Boxing Championships, which would further cement Sri Lanka’s position as a key player in the Asian boxing scene.
The long-term vision under Bandara’s leadership is bold and ambitious. With an eye on securing a medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, his four-year strategy focuses on grassroots development, providing boxers with frequent international exposure, upgrading coaching standards and transforming Sri Lanka into a hub for international boxing events.
The record-breaking participation of Sri Lanka’s young talent at the Asian Junior Schoolboys Championships in the UAE highlighted the success of this approach and signalled a promising future for boxing.
As an entrepreneur and diplomat, Bandara has not only brought his business acumen and global connections to the role but has also demonstrated a personal commitment by investing his own resources into the sport.
His dedication, resourcefulness, and belief in Sri Lanka’s boxing talent have redefined the sport’s trajectory, setting it on a path toward reclaiming its past glory and achieving new heights. By delivering on his promises, he is not only building momentum but also reinforcing the faith of athletes, officials and fans in the boundless potential of Sri Lankan boxing.
Like his predecessor, Dian Gomes, a respected international figure in boxing administration, he is charting a path to elevate Sri Lanka boxing to global prominence. His personal sacrifices and dedication have already created a ripple effect, with athletes and officials inspired to aim higher. Together, they have laid the foundation for Sri Lanka to once again become a force in international boxing.
In just six months, Bandara has redefined the trajectory of Sri Lankan boxing, proving that with dedication, transparency and strategic planning, even a sport facing financial and institutional challenges can achieve greatness.
With his visionary leadership, Sri Lankan boxing is poised to achieve its goal of bringing home Olympic glory and re-establishing itself on the world stage. The journey promises to be as exciting.
