Isuru Lakshan cleared of doping charges

By Susil Premalal

The Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency (SLADA) yesterday cleared 400m athlete Isuru Lakshan of doping allegations and released him from all charges.

The disciplinary inquiry was initiated after Lakshan refused to provide a random urine sample following the 400m Men’s Selection Trial held on April 19 this year at the Mahinda Rajapaksa Stadium, Diyagama.

The event was organised by Sri Lanka Athletics (SLA) and Lakshan’s refusal led SLADA to impose a temporary competition ban and move forward with disciplinary proceedings.

A three-member Disciplinary Panel was appointed by SLADA under the chairmanship of Uditha Egalahewa with Prof. Rohini Fernandopulle and Dr. Nimal Gunarathne serving as members. 

The panel convened on June 3 and July 3 during which they conducted extensive questioning of the accused athlete. After a thorough review, the panel recommended that Lakshan be acquitted of all charges.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, SLADA Director General Dr. Shiromi Pilapitiya confirmed that the panel’s recommendation was accepted thereby exonerating the athlete. 

Representing SLADA were Attorneys-at-Law Panduka Keerthinanda and Subhani Mallawarachchi while Lakshan was represented by Attorneys-at-Law Ranil Premathilaka and Suminda Perera.