BY ALLAAM OUSMAN

• Sachini Fernando, a 20-year-old boxing sensation, demonstrated her exceptional skill and potential by clinching the Best Boxer award at the prestigious Clifford Cup Boxing Championship. In a thrilling final, Sachini outpointed Sri Lanka boxer Ishara Thushari Perera with a display of technical excellence, showcasing refined technique and impressive ringcraft in the Light Fly 50kg weight class.

This marks her second Best Boxer accolade in her burgeoning career. Now she is eyeing her maiden national title at the upcoming 97th National Boxing Championship.

A proud product of Viharamahadevi Balika Vidyalaya, Kiribathgoda, Sachini is a proud product of Rashmika Shehani Illangaratne, a former Sri Lanka boxer and a five-time Best Boxer at the Nationals. Illangaratne, reflecting on her protégé’s success, remarked, “Sachini is an extraordinary talent with a strong work ethic. Her ability to stay composed and execute strategies in the ring is what sets her apart. She has the potential to achieve great things for Sri Lanka on the international stage.”

What makes Sachini’s journey even more remarkable is her family’s unique connection to boxing. As the eldest of three siblings, she has paved the way for her twin Yashini and younger sister Hiruni, who have also taken up the sport, becoming pioneers of boxing at their school. “Boxing has brought us closer as a family,” Sachini said. “My sisters and I push each other to be better every day. We share our victories and learn from our challenges together.”

They created history at the 2023 All Island National School Games boxing competition when the three sisters won gold medals and Viharamahadevi Balika Vidyalaya emerged inaugural champions.

Their parents, both retired military personnel, have been unwavering pillars of support, encouraging their daughters to pursue their dreams. “Our parents taught us discipline and values that are essential in boxing,” Sachini said. The twins have not only excelled in boxing but have also been selected to attend university to pursue degrees in Sports Science Management, a testament to their dedication both inside and outside the ring.

Sachini’s success at the Clifford Cup is a clear indicator of her potential to make a mark on the international stage. She has already caught the attention of boxing officials. A senior official at the Boxing Association of Sri Lanka commented, “Sachini is a rare gem in Sri Lankan boxing. Her technical skill and determination are reminiscent of some of the greats. We are confident she will bring glory to the country in the near future.”

As she continues to rise, Sachini Fernando represents the future of Sri Lankan boxing. “My dream is to win an international medal for Sri Lanka,” Sachini stated with determination as she vies to win her maiden national title at the championship which begins on Thursday at Galle Face Green. “I want to show the world that Sri Lankan boxers can compete at the highest level.”

With her technical prowess, disciplined training, and the unwavering support of her family and coach, Sachini Fernando is undoubtedly on a trajectory to bring pride and honour to Sri Lanka at the Asian Under-22 Boxing Championship, says her coach Illangaratne.