The future of Sri Lankan tennis entered a new era with the official launch of the Sri Lanka Tennis Premier League (SLTPL), a landmark initiative aimed at creating a sustainable ecosystem for the growth, development, and advancement of tennis across the country.
Organised with the endorsement and support of the Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA), the inaugural SLTPL will be held from 27 to 30 August 2026 at the SLTA Hard Courts in Colombo. The league will feature eight city-based franchises representing Colombo, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Kurunegala, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, and Negombo, bringing together players and communities from across the island.
More than a sporting competition, the SLTPL has been designed as a long-term investment in the future of Sri Lankan tennis. Operating under a not-for-profit model, all surplus generated through the league will be directed towards a dedicated Tennis Development Fund, supporting key areas such as infrastructure development, grassroots programmes, coaching pathways, and athlete advancement.
Speaking at the launch, SLTA President Iqbal Bin Issack highlighted that while Sri Lanka has strong sporting talent, passion, and a rich tennis culture, the sport has historically lacked a sustainable framework to support long-term growth. The SLTPL aims to bridge this gap by establishing a commercially viable platform that creates resources while enhancing the visibility and reach of tennis nationwide.
SLTPL Director Roshan Silva described the initiative as a movement beyond a traditional sporting event, with the vision of building a vibrant tennis culture that connects players, fans, sponsors, and communities throughout Sri Lanka. The league has already begun creating a tangible impact, with plans underway to install international-standard floodlighting at the SLTA Hard Courts, becoming the first infrastructure project supported through the SLTPL.
The league is also expected to unlock new opportunities for corporate participation and investment in tennis. With its ability to connect brands with an engaged and influential audience, the SLTPL provides a platform for organisations to contribute to a meaningful national sporting initiative while supporting the continued growth of tennis in Sri Lanka.
IDL Reopens Renovated MOH Office in Kaduwela, Reinforcing Commitment to Community Wellbeing
International Distillers Limited (IDL) ceremonially reopened the newly renovated Medical Officer of Health (MOH) Office in Kaduwela on 6 May 2026, reaffirming the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting the community it calls home.
The occasion was attended by IDL Chairman Mohan Tissanayagam, Deputy Chairperson Indhu Selvaratnam, Chief Executive Officer Janek Jayasekara, Executive Director Dr. Kemal de Soysa, along with members of the company’s senior leadership team.
Dr. Chandana Pathberiya, Medical Officer of Health, Kaduwela, welcomed the gathering and expressed his appreciation for IDL’s continued contribution towards strengthening public health infrastructure in the area. Rohitha Amarapala, Chief Human Resources Officer of IDL, highlighted the company’s ongoing engagement with the Kaduwela community and its commitment to creating shared value for society, the environment, and the business.
Dr. Kushan Basnayake, Consultant Community Medicine, also extended his appreciation to IDL, recognising the initiative as a strong example of responsible corporate citizenship and community-focused development.
The renovation project was led by Nanda Kumar Nair, Group Chief Financial Officer of IDL, in collaboration with Facility Manager Upul Priyantha, whose dedication and efforts played a key role in bringing the initiative to completion.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of Enfamama nutritional supplement packages to pregnant mothers attending the clinic on the day. Deputy Chairperson Indhu Selvaratnam personally handed over the packages to the expectant mothers, reflecting IDL’s continued commitment to supporting maternal and community wellbeing.
Through initiatives such as this, IDL continues to demonstrate its commitment to making a meaningful and lasting impact within the communities it serves.
Sri Lanka Tennis Premier League Set to Redefine the Future of Tennis in Sri Lanka
