Sri Lanka’s Power Trio Takes the Field

Our Undergraduates Represent Sri Lanka at AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers

Uzbekistan – In a proud moment for Sri Lankan football, three undergraduates from the Department of Sports Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, represented the nation at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers. It was held from 23 June to 19 July 2025, unfolded across eight host nations including Uzbekistan, bringing together the continent’s finest talent. From this intense competition, eight teams earned qualification for the upcoming 2026 main championship in Australia, joining the host nation and the top three teams from the 2022 edition.

Our undergraduate Imesha Warnakulasuriya (4th year), Gowry Surenthiran (4th year), and Shanu Baskaran (2019/20 Batch) proudly represented the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and Sri Lanka at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, showcasing their skills, determination, and resilience on the international stage. Their remarkable participation not only brought pride to the nation and the University but also reflected the strength of Sri Lanka’s emerging women’s football and the growing impact of academic-sport integration fostered by the Department of Sports Science.

Their participation marked a significant milestone, showcasing both athletic excellence and the strength of academic-sport integration. Though the qualifiers have now concluded, the presence of Imesha, Gowry, and Shanu in the national squad stands as a historic moment for Sri Lankan women’s football. Their courage and commitment inspire fellow students and aspiring athletes across the country.

The University and the nation extend heartfelt congratulations to these remarkable young women. Their journey adds pride to Sri Lanka’s sporting legacy and lights the path for the next generation of champions.

Written by: Asha Rasangi