CGL tees off today

Friday, 5 December 2025 02:25 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

The Ceylon Golf League (CGL) is set to script a landmark moment in the country’s sporting landscape as Sri Lanka’s first-ever franchise golf competition tees off today at the Royal Colombo Golf Club. Conceptualised by Island Golf and spearheaded by Mahela Jayawardene, Suhayb Sangani and Shamal Perera, the league introduces a modern, city-based format designed to transform how golf is played, viewed and experienced in the nation.

With an ambition to elevate amateur golf to the national spotlight, CGL aims to blend sporting excellence with entertainment while fostering strong regional identity and rivalries. The founders envision this as the first step in building a South Asian golfing force, with future plans to expand the league across borders and welcome international participation. The inaugural edition promises not just competitive golf but a refreshed narrative around the sport.

Eight franchise teams – Colombo Aces, Anuradhapura Gladiators, Kandy Kings, Nuwara Eliya Panthers, Trinco Sharks, Hambantota Tuskers, Galle Ballers and Sigiriya Hornets – will contest the title. Featuring leading amateur talents such as Kaya Daluwatte, Jevahn Sathasivam, Reshan Algama, Dhanushan Kumar and Chanaka Perera, the competition is expected to deliver high-intensity matchplay over three consecutive days.

The format has been carefully curated to balance excitement and skill, beginning with Foursomes on 5 December, Indies on 6 December and concluding with Fourball on 7 December. Each day offers spectators a fresh strategic dimension, ensuring the action remains engaging throughout. Comprehensive broadcast coverage by Dialog, ThePapare.com, PEOTV, PEO Sports and E FM 88.3 will take the tournament to audiences across the island.

Backed by major partners including Sampath Bank Private Banking, Hutch, Mastercard and several associate sponsors, the CGL arrives with formidable support. Significantly, this edition also serves a humanitarian purpose, with organisers and franchise owners pledging to raise funds for communities affected by recent natural disasters.

With captains and managers already announced across all teams, and anticipation building rapidly, the Colombo Golf League stands ready to redefine golf for a new generation while uniting the nation through sport.