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The contingent of athletes and officials met with the Minister of Sports C.B. Ratnayake and the High Commissioner for India Ashok Malhotra at the Olympic House at Torrington Avenue yesterday morning. They also received their packages of kits and other goods to look as one unit at the Commonwealth Games Village in Delhi.

The High Commissioner for India addressing the gathering said that he was happy to note that the Sri Lankan contingent is making the trip at full strength. “Despite stories of glitches and issues faced by the organisers of the Games, the event will go ahead” added Malhotra. 

Malhotra also said that there has been last minute cleaning work of the entire area of the Games sites and hopefully the work will be completed days before the start of the Games.

He assured that the Sri Lankan contingent would receive a warm welcome and that they will be well looked after.

He admitted that there were plenty of shortcomings in preparation however the work is well on course to be finished on time.

Malhotra also said that Sri Lanka are well known for their hospitality extended to foreign delegates and hoped that India would try to match this during their stay in Delhi.

Minister of Sports C.B. Ratnayake said that he hoped the athletes would perform at their best to bring honour and glory to Sri Lanka.

He advised the athletes not to play games within the games and spoil the name of the country. He stressed that everyone must be united and enjoy during the Games that evolve the highest standards.

The contingent of about 94 athletes and over 20 officials will leave for Delhi today. The rugby squad for the Sevens tournament will leave on Monday, October 4.

source DM