Injunction against Sri Lanka 4 X 400 team to Commonwealth games extended

A Sri Lankan court extended an injunction against the national 4 X 400 meters relay team representing Sri Lanka at the Commonwealth Games.

The court rejected an appeal filed by the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Athletic Association major General Palitha Fernando and extended the injunction until October 06.

Colombo additional district judge R.M.R. Marikkar issued an injunction preventing the 4X400 meters relay team leaving Sri Lanka. The team had reportedly reached the airport as the court order was issued and it was reportedly delivered to officials over the phone.

A dispute related to a member of the 4X400 meters relay team caused the situation. The best athlete Shalitha Ramnayaka of Special Task Force (STF) was substituted by another runner by sports officials since Ramanayaka refused a last minute selective race. However, his party that argued the test was unfair went to court seeking redress.

A total of 72 male 20 female athletes in 14 sports left for India to participate in the 19th Commonwealth Games. The contingent also consists of 45 officials.