COLOMBO, Mar 17 (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka’s two-time consecutive junior national squash champion Matheesha Wijesekara of Royal College Colombo has climbed to No. 8 in the Asian Under-19 rankings, a remarkable achievement that highlights the rapid rise of the young Sri Lankan on the international junior squash circuit.
The 18-year-old Royalist has emerged as one of Sri Lanka’s most promising squash players, making steady progress against Asia’s best young competitors. His climb has been dramatic, as he jumped from No. 29 to No. 8 in the rankings within just two months, reflecting his consistent performances and growing reputation among Asia’s leading junior players.
Wijesekara is also the son of a Sri Lanka national war hero, a background that has shaped his discipline, determination and fighting spirit both on and off the squash court.
The latest Asian rankings were released recently by Asia Squash following several international junior tournaments across the region. Wijesekara’s position is expected to improve further as the ranking points from his runner-up finish at the Sri Lanka Junior Open have not yet been added to the official tally.
His rise in the rankings has been powered by impressive performances in several international tournaments, including competitions held in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, as well as the event staged in Sri Lanka.
The young Royalist will next compete in two major international tournaments in Malaysia during April. He is scheduled to take part in the 2nd Touch ‘n Go Junior Open, a prestigious Gold-level event in Kuala Lumpur in the first week of April, before competing in the Western India SLAM Gold Event in Mumbai from April 20 to 25, 2026.
These tournaments are expected to play a crucial role in strengthening Wijesekara’s position among Asia’s top junior players and could push him even higher in the rankings once the new points are added.
However, competing regularly on the international circuit requires significant financial support. Like many young athletes, Wijesekara now faces the challenge of securing corporate sponsorship to fund his overseas tours, which are essential for gaining exposure and improving his international rankings.
Wijesekara expressed his sincere gratitude to all his coaches and individuals who have supported him throughout his journey, helping him reach this important milestone in Asian junior squash.
With only one year remaining in his junior career, the talented Royalist is determined to work harder and bring greater glory to his alma mater Royal College and to Sri Lanka before moving to the senior ranks.
