Dialog-powered national Netball team receives heroic welcome at BIA

Tuesday, 5 November 2024 01:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Dialog Axiata Group Marketing Assistant Vice President Ashani Senaratne (left) welcoming National Netball Team Captain Dulangi Wannithilleka at the Bandaranaike International Airport

The Sri Lanka national netball team, sponsored by Dialog Axiata PLC, received a warm welcome at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) following their impressive performance at the 2024 Asian Netball Championship, held in Bengaluru.

Although the Sri Lankan team was widely expected to secure the title once again, they narrowly missed out, losing 64-67 to Singapore in a closely contested final. This victory marked Singapore’s first championship win in a decade, while Sri Lanka had to settle for the runner-up position, having been the undisputed champions since 2018. They successfully defended their title four years later in 2022 and were the dominant force in this year’s tournament, although they fell short by a slender margin of three points.

Despite not winning the title, the Sri Lankans displayed remarkable talent and determination throughout the tournament. The six-time winners’ journey to the final this year showcased their skill and fighting spirit, with the team putting up a strong challenge.

Dialog has been a steadfast supporter of Sri Lankan netball since 2018. The company’s sponsorship has played a key role in empowering the team, aligning with its dedication to promoting women’s sports and fostering national pride. Dialog’s involvement with the team reflects its broader commitment to nurturing a more inclusive sports culture in Sri Lanka, where gender equality and opportunities for women in sport are championed.

Dialog Axiata PLC Group Marketing Assistant Vice President Ashani Senaratne said: “We are immensely proud of the Sri Lanka national netball team’s achievements at the Asian Netball Championship 2024. Their runner-up finish is a testament to their hard work, passion, and the unyielding support from fans across the nation. Dialog remains committed to empowering women and advancing diversity and inclusivity in sport, and our partnership with the national netball team reflects these core values. We will continue to support the team’s journey to achieve greater heights.”

In addition to supporting netball, Dialog sponsors several other national sports, including cricket, volleyball, and esports. The company is also the main sponsor of the Sri Lanka Golf Open. Moreover, Dialog promotes diversity, equity, and inclusiveness through its partnerships with organisations like the National Paralympic Committee, which enables Sri Lankan athletes to compete both nationally and internationally. Dialog also invests in developing future champions by supporting events such as the President’s Gold Cup Volleyball, national junior and senior netball tournaments, and school rugby.