COLOMBO – As the Netball Federation of Sri Lanka (NFSL) heads into its high-stakes election this morning, all eyes are on the Duncan White Auditorium. While the Nethicumara “mother-daughter” dynamic has dominated headlines, the real battle for the soul of the sport lies in the contest for the Secretary position, featuring one of the most decorated figures in Sri Lankan netball history.
The Heavyweight Contender: Damayanthi Jayathilaka
Representing the Gampaha District Netball Association (GDNA), Damayanthi Jayathilaka is not just another candidate; she is a titan of the game. A former Sri Lanka National Captain, Jayathilaka etched her name in history by leading the national team to glory at the 2001 Asian Netball Championship (Asia Cup) held in Colombo.
Beyond her legendary captaincy, Jayathilaka’s resume is peerless:
Two-time World Cup Veteran: Represented Sri Lanka at the 1999 (New Zealand) and 2003 (Jamaica) World Cups.
Commonwealth Games Alum: Competed in the 2002 Manchester Games.
Leadership Excellence: Served as the Chairperson of the National Netball Selection Committee and previously held the role of NFSL Secretary.
Today, she faces off against Shiromi Kuruppu of Ratnapura. Analysts suggest that Jayathilaka’s vast experience and “Asia Cup winning” pedigree make her the clear choice for those looking to restore technical excellence to the federation.
The Nethicumara “Tactical Move”
Meanwhile, the Presidential race remains shrouded in controversy. Vajira Nethicumara remains the frontrunner, but her victory is expected to be preceded by the tactical withdrawal of her daughter, Rukshi Sarah Nethicumara. This move is seen by many as a strategic maneuver to ensure the family maintains a firm grip on the Kalutara and Kandy district voting blocs before a two-way showdown with Desika Vitharana.
Ending the “Competent Authority” Era
Today’s vote marks the end of a turbulent period where the sport was managed by government-appointed officials following the 2024 dissolution of the previous board. With 26 district associations eligible to vote, the new administration will inherit a sport that has been in administrative limbo for nearly two years.
Key Contestant Snapshot:
Presidential Race: Vajira Nethicumara vs. Desika Vitharana (following Rukshi’s expected withdrawal).
Secretary Race: Damayanthi Jayathilaka (Former Asia Cup Winning Captain) vs. Shiromi Kuruppu.