Shuttlers and wrestler shows promise

SRI LANKA’S young shuttlers showed exceptional talent and fighting spirit at the Asian Youth Games (AYG) 2025 producing some of the country’s finest badminton performances in recent history.

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The quartet of Nethmi Rathnayake, Padumudu Randiligama, Sithuli Ranasinghe, and Keneth Aruggoda led the charge with remarkable victories in both singles and mixed doubles, bringing pride to the island nation.

In the Mixed Doubles Sri Lanka got off to a flying start when Nethmi Rathnayake and Padumudu Randiligama teamed up to record a convincing 2/0 win over, Qatars Alma’s Almoki and Noor Abel displaying excellent coordination and attacking flair. Their seamless teamwork and strong net play gave Sri Lanka early momentum in the tournament.

Meanwhile, Keneth Aruggoda and Sithuli Ranasinghe also performed admirably in their opening encounter, though their campaign came to a halt in the pre-quarterfinals against China’s Xing Zhibo and Chen Sihan, who prevailed 2/0. The Sri Lankan pair fought gallantly, but the Chinese duo’s speed and precision ultimately proved too strong.