Second best Sri Lanka secure Asian Games hockey slot

Sri Lanka runner-up squad comprised Dhammika Ranasinghe (Captain), Sameera Weerasuriya, Suren Bothale, Batuvita Sandaruwan, Rajitha Kulatunga, Sanda Sudusinghe, Damian Karunamunige, Udayashan Fernando, Madumal Palle, Seran Bothale, Kusal Weerappuli, Dhanushka Epa, Ashan Udaherath, Hewawasam Alisandarage, Nilaksha Visidagamage (GK), Tharindu Hendeniya (GK) and Suresh Ratnayake

By Susil Premalal

Sri Lanka secured a place in the Asian Games 2026 hockey tournament after finishing runners-up in the qualifying tournament although going down to Oman 3–1 in the final in Bangkok, Thailand yesterday.

The Asian Games hockey tournament is scheduled to be held in Japan from September 18 to October 3, 2026.

The qualifier tournament featured nine Asian nations and Sri Lanka finished second best ahead of Uzbekistan (3rd), Indonesia (4th), Bangladesh (5th), Chinese Taipei (6th), Thailand (7th), Hong Kong (8th) and Kazakhstan (9th).

In addition, top-ranked Asian teams Pakistan, India, China, Malaysia, Japan and South Korea had secured direct qualification to the Asian Games.

Oman, ranked seventh in Asia, entered the final as favourites against Sri Lanka ranked 11th, and justified their status with a convincing performance.

In the final played yesterday, Oman took early control leading 1–0 in the first period and extended their lead to 3–1 by halftime. 

The score remained unchanged through the third period and at full time.

Sri Lanka’s goal was scored by Kusal Weerappuli in the 21st minute.

Sri Lanka’s runner-up finish ensures their place among the 12 teams competing in the Asian Games 2026 hockey tournament, marking a significant achievement for the national side.