Asia’s No. 3 Nevindu Most Outstanding Schools Squash Player

Nevindu Lakman, the talented junior squash player from DS Senanayake College, secured the Most Outstanding Schools Squash Player of the Year Award at the recent Sportsunleash Schools Sports Awards 2023. The event, organized by SPORTSINFO in collaboration with the Institute of Sports Management (IOSM), took place at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) recently.Lakman’s remarkable journey began last year when he achieved the title of Asia’s third-best junior squash player. He made history as the highest-ranking Sri Lankan junior squash player in Asia in April. Additionally, he proudly represented Sri Lanka at the World Junior Squash Championship held in Melbourne, Australia.

In the Open category of the Nationals last year, Lakman clinched the first runner-up position as a junior player. He completed his third consecutive Junior National Championship and ventured into the Professional Squash Association (PSA) tournaments, making his mark in various competitions.During his PSA journey, Lakman achieved notable results, including a fourth-place finish in the Indian Open Squash Championship, a finalist position in the Qatar Junior, a third-place finish in the Singapore Junior, and a fourth-place win in the Southern Slam Tournament in Chennai.

Ending the year on a high note, Lakman climbed the world rankings from 700 in April 2023 to an impressive 304 by the end of the year. He now stands as the third-ranked player in Sri Lanka, following national champion Ravindu Laksiri and runner-up Shamil Wakeel.Expressing his joy, Lakman shared, “I am really happy to win this award and be among the best 18 school players in the ceremony. It’s a huge motivation for me and a big result for my sport. Last year’s hard work has paid off, and I’m really happy.”

Acknowledging the support he received, Lakman credited DS Senanayake College and its Old Boys Association, along with the Sri Lanka Squash, for contributing to his success. His coach, Janitha Maduranga, who is also his brother and an old boy of DS Senanayake College, played a crucial role in his achievements. Lakman also recognized the unwavering support of Fitness Coach Priyanka Perea, a former national wrestling and judo player, who has been assisting him for the past five years free of charge.

( Source : Daily News)