In a recent development, Minister of Sports, Harin Fernando, has reshaped the composition of the National Sports Council, appointing a 15-member team and replacing former chairman Arjuna Ranatunga with Dr. Maiya Gunasekara.
The newly appointed members of the National Sports Council are as follows:
- Dr. Maiya Gunasekara – Chairman
- Mr. I.U. Wickramasuriya – Secretary
- Mrs. Sriyani Kulawansa
- Major General (Retired) Rajitha Ampemohotti
- Prof. Arjuna de Silva
- Mr. Panduka Keerthinada
- Mr. Ana G. G. Punchihewa
- Mr. Malik Kader
- Dr. S.V.D. Nanayakkara
- Mr. Hafeez Marso
- Mr. Sidath Wettimuny
- General (Retired) Jagath Jayasuriya
- Mrs. Anuradha Illeperuma
- Prof. Shemal Fernando
- Mr. Kamal Deshapriya
Simultaneously, the Sports Minister has also formed the National Sports Selection Committee, consisting of the following members:
- General Shavendra Silva – Chairman
- Mr. Arjun Rishaya Fernando – Secretary
- Dr. Maiya Gunasekara
- Mr. Suresh Subramaniyam
- Mr. Nalinda Sampath Ilangakoon
These appointments mark a significant change in the leadership structure of sports governance in the country, demonstrating the government’s commitment to fostering excellence and efficiency in the sporting arena.