Category: Daily Financial Times

Having lost their opening game of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup to India and seen their second match against Australia washed out by rain, Sri Lanka who have been out of action in the tournament for 10 days come up against England at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium today in a match that will test their skills and patience.

‘We are aware of the challenges we will have with England. England is on par or second best to Australia in terms of matches won, World Cups won. We are not bothered about that at this stage, but we are aware of that,’ said Sri Lanka Women Head Coach Rumesh Ratnayake at the pre-match media conference.

‘Our main concern will be our preparation. Our preparation with our strengths and how we can match it with their weaknesses. We will watch their strengths, we will watch their weaknesses and how we can establish that or do it at the right moment to get it right. Those are our talks, our conversations. But saying that, in our batting, the girls are really up to it and wanting to do well. That’s a huge plus because they know it’s a big stage.’

‘Sometimes we need to bring it down and say it’s just another match. But they are excited about this big stage. To capitalise on that and to maximise, they need to have runs on the scoreboard. They are aware of that. They are also aware that somebody, at least one or two, should bat till the end. Those are the conversations we’ve had about batting. Bowling also, we are well planned. With our coaches, we are scrutinising every batter of the English team and going through them. We analysed their top nine. But the time for observing is over, now we need to take ownership of the situation, and go out there and perform.’

‘We believe England is a very experienced side, even though they don’t have left-handers they are quite well equipped, so we understand their strengths. We know what they’re strong at and we’ve seen them do it all so to speak. We believe that we are ready to sort of counter-attack that and do the best we can in the best way we could.’

Ratnayake emphasised that in batting what was most needed was patience and discipline. ‘That’s what we lacked maybe against India, not deliberate, but it needs more focus so that it could be established.’

On the contributions expected from the lower order batters Ratnayake said, ‘We actually spoke about this in detail, how those coming lower down the order – even below number seven – need to score more. Our main responsibility is that the top seven need to score the most runs. We’re addressing it differently, because even in the last game no one scored even 50 – not that 50 would have been enough. We’ve spoken about how you need to bat deep – at least one of the top six needs to hang around. It’s because none of those batters hung around that we were unable to chase down India’s score. I’ve seen that tail-enders have come and scored runs in this tournament, but if you look at it from a different angle that’s the way the game is headed now, so we need to also aim to do that and expect runs from numbers eight, nine and ten.’

Sri Lanka actually lost their opening game to India due to poor catching and Ratnayake was quite frank in his assessment of the fielding standards.

‘We saw two sides to ourselves in that game. Our best fielding and our worst. We need to understand that there are 300 deliveries in an innings, so we need to keep up our standards right throughout. We’ve had discussions, we know that nobody drops catches intentionally, but it’s important to keep our concentration levels up.’

Sri Lanka women’s cricket has shown an upward trend since Ratnayake took over two and a half years ago and he put it down to ‘attitude’.

‘The discipline in which they have brought in. But it’s not just me, I think it was set up in a way in which it was easy for me to take over and sort of walk that talk. I believe the girls were really into it too. They wanted to get to that next level and they were very keen on getting there. As a coach it was an absolute delight.’

New Zealand opened their account in the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup when they beat Bangladesh by a thumping margin of 100 runs at Guwahati yesterday.

Bangladesh faced their second highest run-chase in this format when New Zealand inserted to bat first scored 227-9, but their batters struggled against a disciplined bowling attack and succumbed for 127 to lose with more than 10 overs to spare.

Bangladeshi batters struggled for momentum from the word-go as Rosemary Mair and Jess Kerr kept probing away by generating a substantial amount of swing and seam movement. They went into their shell and also kept losing wickets at regular intervals slumping to 33-6 at one stage. From there on, Bangladesh showed some resistance to stitch together partnerships and take the score past 125 but they were always playing catch-up cricket with none of the top order batters having a say. Even though New Zealand won they were not spotless with the ball. They conceded 30 extras – 21 of which were wides. Tahuhu, in her 100th ODI, picked up three wickets, with Jess Kerr also popping up with a three-wicket haul. Mair, playing her first game of the tournament, also finished with two wickets, with Amelia Kerr the other wicket-taker.

New Zealand were in a bit of bother when their top-order failed to impress. After being reduced to 38-3 New Zealand did well to get to 227-9 thanks mainly to the partnership of 112 off 166 balls between Sophie Devine (63 off 85 balls, 2 fours, 2 sixes) and Brooke Halliday (69 off 104 balls, 5 fours, 1 six). Both of them got fifties but couldn’t quite cash in at the death as they perished while going for the big shots. Yet, New Zealand scored 74 off the final 10 overs. For Bangladesh, Marufa Akter had an off day but the spinners were very good, especially Rabeya Khan and Nahida Akter.

Scores: New Zealand Women 227-9 (50) (Suzie Bates 29, Sophie Devine 63, Brooke Halliday 69, Maddy Green 25, Rabeya Khan 3/30)

Bangladesh Women 127 (39.5) (Fahima Khatun 34, Rabeya Khan 25, Rosemary Mair 2/20, Jess Kerr 3/21, Lea Tahuhu 3/22)

The Government is facilitating the authorities to investigate all past crimes and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is currently managing an overwhelming caseload of over 20,000, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said.

Addressing the post-Cabinet press briefing early this week he said the National People’s Power (NPP) Government took over a country that had a high record of crimes.

‘According to my information there are over 20,000 investigations that have been initiated or are to be initiated by the CID. They are working around the clock and if they are to investigate all those cases, we have to have another four to five CIDs,’ he said, noting that investigating all those crimes in a short span of period is impossible.

However, Dr. Jayatissa said that investigations were progressing steadily, particularly following the arrest of several individuals linked to underworld networks.

‘Those involved in these crimes are not only the murderers and shooters, but also those who gave them political shelter and directives. Among them are those who have returned to power again and again,’ he said.

He said uncovering evidence from older cases, especially those dating back to 2012, had been challenging due to the lack of technical evidence available at the time but the investigators are taking all efforts to continue with those investigations.

‘Re-exposing concealed evidence is a difficult journey,’ he said. ‘But the officers are working very hard, and the Government is providing full support to ensure justice is served.’

Jaswar Umar the incumbent President of Football Sri Lanka (FSL) has been appointed as a member of the Grassroots and Amateur Football Committee of FIFA recently.

He is the first Asian to be inducted to a committee by the world football Governing body FIFA, which is a rare honour, which eventually will enable him to serve in the policy making body of grassroots and amateur football affairs worldwide.

Jaswar, who completed two years as FSL President few days back, will join hands with a team of 24 other members from various countries.

Sri Lanka rankings up

Meanwhile, after the 1-0 triumph over Turkmenistan, the National Football team has been elevated to the 191st position in the FIFA rankings.

They were at a low 206 for a long time, and later reached 197 few months back with their improved performance. The win over Turkmenistan has helped them to get to 191, which is a record-breaking achievement as it is FIFA world rankings top 20 best point movers.

From left: CIABOC Chairperson Justice Neil Iddawala, Embassy of Japan Minister/Deputy Head of Mission Kamoshida Naoaki, and UNDP Sri Lanka Resident Representative Azusa Kubota

In a landmark move to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of addressing bribery and corruption related matters in Sri Lanka, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, with funding from the Government of Japan through the Japanese Supplementary Budget (JSB) has unveiled the Case-File Tracking System for CIABOC; a major step in advancing the country’s efforts to strengthen integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance. The success of the case tracking system project is deeply rooted in the ongoing project on ‘Promoting Economic Governance through Anti-Corruption Policy Support’.

The new system, inaugurated at CIABOC premises in Colombo, was launched in the presence of CIABOC Chairperson Justice Neil Iddawala, CIABOC Commissioners K.B. Rajapakshe and Chethiya Gunasekara, Embassy of Japan Minister/Deputy Head of Mission Kamoshida Naoaki, CIABOC Director General Ranga Dissanayake, and UNDP Sri Lanka Resident Representative Azusa Kubota.

The Case-File Tracking System introduces a modern digital platform that streamlines case management, improves workflow efficiency, and enables timely, transparent investigations. By strengthening CIABOC’s institutional capacity, the system enhances the Commission’s ability to fulfil its constitutional mandate, while contributing directly to the Government’s ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ vision for transparent and accountable governance.

The primary purpose of the Case-File Tracking Solution is to modernise and streamline the Commission’s approach to handling and managing its investigations and operational processes, including key objectives such as efficient case management and optimised workflow; enhanced accountability and coordination; supporting real-time reporting, access, and collaboration tools; among others.

Speaking at the launch, CIABOC Chairperson Justice Neil Iddawala noted, ‘We are not simply unveiling a software tool. We are embracing a paradigm shift in how we manage the critical flow of information, records, and case files that define the core of our institution. In an era where information is supreme, where the ability to access, track and manage data effectively is directly tied to public confidence, our Case Tracking System will undoubtedly be a game-changer for CIABOC.’

Both the Embassy of Japan and UNDP have played crucial roles in providing technical and financial support, sharing global best practices, and building local capacity.

Echoing this sentiment, UNDP Sri Lanka Resident Representative Azusa Kubota commented, ‘Digitalisation of the case tracking system is aligned with the country’s ambition to improve efficiency and transparency of service delivery. This system empowers CIABOC to further strengthen accountability and transparency around the ways in which it manages cases. Through the partnership generously funded by the Government of Japan, UNDP has been able to provide CIABOC with technical support, share global best practices, and build local systems and capacities that are required to implement the NAP for the effective prevention of corruption and the promotion of integrity, transparency and accountability across public institutions.’

Highlighting the importance of anti-corruption efforts, Embassy of Japan Minister/Deputy Head of Mission Kamoshida Naoaki added, ‘We believe the new case tracking system will further enhance CIABOC’s capacity for investigation. Eradicating corruption is important not only for restoring public trust in the Government but also for increasing foreign investment, which will contribute to the economic revitalisation of Sri Lanka. Japan remains committed to assisting Sri Lanka’s efforts in tackling corruption and strengthening good governance.’

The launch of the case tracking system is part of Sri Lanka’s wider digital transformation in public governance. By embedding digital tools in institutions, the country is reducing inefficiencies, minimising delays, and creating stronger safeguards against corruption. This initiative complements a broader suite of digital reforms supported by UNDP and development partners, including the e-Record Room system at CIABOC, the recently launched e-Procurement Monitoring System, and the forthcoming e-Asset Declaration platform. This initiative also contributes to the IMF recommendations to strengthen the investigation and prosecution of corruption cases by enhancing the maintenance of comprehensive and updated case statistics and improving case flow management.

To ensure the effective operationalisation and long-term sustainability of the system, the Government of Japan, together with UNDP, also handed over hardware infrastructure equipment valued at $ 202,000 to operationalise the case system. In addition, targeted training was provided to CIABOC staff, strengthening their expertise to fully leverage the benefits of the system.

Through these initiatives, CIABOC is embracing digitalisation as a driver of change, ensuring independence, transparency, and accountability in its work, while aligning with Sri Lanka’s digital governance agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

SriLankan Airlines and Saudia Airlines have renewed and expanded their interline agreement, strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two national carriers.

The updated arrangement links 13 international destinations within Saudia’s network and 13 domestic points across Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka and onward connections operated by SriLankan Airlines.

In a statement, SriLankan Airlines said the renewed partnership offers passengers across Saudi Arabia improved travel convenience, better connectivity, and a wider range of route options across both airlines’ networks.

Playdium, a bowling and entertainment arena in Sri Lanka hosted the inaugural Playdium Pin League (PPL) recently, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s sporting and leisure landscape.

The debut tournament brought together 22 teams comprising more than 100 corporate and open players, all competing on Brunswick Champion standard bowling alleys, the same technology utilised in leading international tournaments. The event generated a dynamic atmosphere, drawing attention to bowling’s growing popularity in Sri Lanka.

At the conclusion of an evening of spirited competition, the Champion Award winners were Panther Paces, with Fireball and Ball Burners emerging as 1st and 2nd runner-up.

Playdium Director Ashan de Livera said, ‘Hosting the first-ever Premier Bowling League in Sri Lanka is a proud milestone for us. Our vision has always been to provide a platform where competition and entertainment converge, allowing both corporates and individuals to experience bowling at international standards. The success of the inaugural PPL confirms the sport’s growing foothold in Sri Lanka and we are committed to establishing this as a bi-annual competition.’

Strategically located on the ground floor of Shangri-La’s One Galle Face Mall, Playdium is designed to meet international benchmarks as Sri Lanka’s largest world-class bowling and entertainment facility. Beyond its Brunswick Champion standard lanes and advanced scoring systems, the venue spans over 20,000 square feet and features an extensive range of attractions, including Arcade Games, Kids’ Play Area, VR Zone, Bumper Car Zone, Karaoke and Party Facilities as well as the Champions Table Restaurant.

Aryna Sabalenka extended her winning streak at the Wuhan Open to 20 matches with a straight-set victory over Elena Rybakina in the quarter-finals yesterday.

World number one Sabalenka, who is the three-time defending champion in Wuhan, beat eighth seed Rybakina 6-3 6-3 and said the Kazakhstani ‘always pushes me to the limit to get the win’.

The 27-year-old Belarusian, who is the top seed, will face American Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals on Saturday.

Pegula, 31, needed three sets to overcome Czech Katerina Siniakova 2-6 6-0 6-3 in the last eight.

World number three Coco Gauff also booked her place in the last four by comfortably beating Laura Siegemund 6-3 6-0.

Sabalenka is the fourth female player to win their first 20 main draw matches in a single WTA level event since 1990 after Monica Seles at the Australian Open (33-0), Steffi Graf in Leipzig (25-0) and Caroline Wozniacki in New Haven (20-0).

Karma is one of the most widely discussed concepts in spiritual traditions, yet it is often misunderstood. Conventionally, people see karma as a system of cosmic reward and punishment: good actions bring good results, and bad actions bring suffering. While this interpretation helps people accept life’s adversities without resentment, it misses the deeper transformative potential of karma. A closer look reveals that karma is less about external events and more about the source of our intentions and the inner consequences they produce. This article explores how the origin of intention, whether from separateness or oneness, shapes our experiences, determines whether karma arises, and opens the door for inner transformation and sustainable living.

Whether an action produces karma depends on the source of its intention; whether the intention comes from separateness or oneness.

The role of intention

Intentions from separateness: When intentions arise from a sense of separateness-the ‘I’ versus ‘others’ or ‘I’ versus ‘the world’ perspective, actions inevitably lead to karma. The consequences may manifest as disturbances within: stress, anger, anxiety, or inner disharmony. These consequences serve as signals, pointing to the need for self-reflection and transformation.

Intentions from oneness: When intentions arise from oneness, a state free from ego, desires, and aversions, actions flow naturally without creating karma. These actions strengthen inner peace, harmony, and joy, benefiting both the self and others. Thus, the presence or absence of karma is not determined by the action itself but by the mental state from which the action originates.

The role of self-observation

Through non-judgmental observation of thoughts and emotions, one can see where intentions originate. This process reveals two distinct patterns: (1) When intentions arise from separateness, the result is inner turbulence and suffering. (2) When intentions arise from oneness, the result is inner peace, harmony, and joy. Self-observation, introspection, journaling, coaching, and retrospection help us trace our mental disturbances back to their roots in separateness, enabling a conscious shift toward oneness.

Conventional beliefs and missed opportunities

Traditional beliefs about karma often fall into three common scenarios:

Attributing adversity to karma: When something undesirable happens, people often say, ‘This is my karma.’ This perspective prevents reactive behaviour toward others, helping preserve peace and relationships. However, it may overlook the chance to see separateness as the deeper root cause.

Rejecting karma and reacting: When people dismiss karma altogether, they often react against the perceived source of suffering, disturbing both inner peace and outer harmony.

A third scenario involves carelessness or unmindful actions being attributed to karma. While this offers self-consolation, it prevents people from recognising the need for mindfulness to avoid similar mistakes in the future.

In all three cases, the transformative opportunity to move from separateness to oneness is missed.

Karma as a positive force for transformation

This deeper understanding reframes karma as a teacher rather than a punisher. Every disturbance: stress, sadness, anger, anxiety, signals that our intentions arose from the wrong source: separateness. When we heed this signal, we can consciously shift toward oneness, transcending self-centeredness and embracing whole-centeredness.

As this shift unfolds, actions naturally align with the principles of peace, harmony, compassion, and sustainability, reflecting the interconnectedness of all life.

Conclusion

Karma, in its deeper sense, is not about fate or destiny but about feedback from life. Every consequence, whether pleasant or unpleasant, is a signal pointing us toward self-awareness and transformation. By observing our thoughts, emotions, and intentions non-judgmentally, we can see whether they arise from separateness or oneness.

When intentions originate from separateness, life presents disturbances as opportunities for inner growth. When intentions arise from oneness, actions naturally align with peace, harmony, and sustainability, freeing us from the cycle of suffering. Thus, karma becomes a pathway to inner freedom and a guide toward living in harmony with ourselves, others, and nature.

The 2025 Michelin Key distinctions, recognising the world’s leading hotels for exceptional hospitality, have been announced, with all three properties under Sri Lanka’s Resplendent Ceylon earning recognition in the South Asia region.

Ceylon Tea Trails received the highest distinction with three Michelin Keys, Wild Coast Tented Lodge was awarded two Keys, and Cape Weligama secured one Key, underscoring the group’s consistent performance in luxury hospitality.

Ceylon Tea Trails stands out as the only property in Sri Lanka to be awarded the prestigious three Michelin Keys.

Resplendent Ceylon Chairman Malik J. Fernando said: ‘We are honoured to see all three of our resorts recognised by the Michelin Key distinctions. To have Ceylon Tea Trails as the only Sri Lankan property with three Keys is a proud moment, underscoring our belief in offering extraordinary, authentic experiences that showcase the very best of Sri Lanka.’

‘These accolades are a testament to the passion and dedication of our teams, and to our ongoing mission of elevating the island’s standing as a world-class luxury destination,’ he added.

The Michelin Key distinctions were unveiled in Paris recently at the inaugural global awards ceremony. It was introduced in 2023 as the hotel world’s equivalent of the Michelin Star and highlights the very best stays worldwide.

Keys are awarded to hotels excelling across five universal criteria: architecture and interior design; service quality; personality and character; value for money; and contribution to the local environment.

The recognition spans all types of lodging, from boutique city hotels and heritage castles to ryokans, luxury tents, and remote retreats. While some Key properties may also host Michelin-Starred restaurants, the awards are determined independently, ensuring each Key reflects the highest standards of lodging excellence.

The rare Three Michelin Keys signify an extraordinary stay, the highest benchmark in global hospitality where design, comfort, and service converge to create an experience that lingers in memory long after departure.