The Sri Lanka National Novices Chess Championship 2026 Jaffna District concluded with spectacular perfect performances from both champions at J/ Urumpirai Hindu College from January 17 to 18, 2026. The championship was organized by the Jaffna District Chess Association on behalf of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, with NA Vimaleshan S serving as Chief Arbiter, Jeyarajah Rukshan as Deputy Chief Arbiter, and supported by arbiters G Gajanthiran and Abiramy Ruban in the Open category, and K Varunya in the Women’s category.
Open Category: Irutheeyahrajah’s Flawless Campaign
In an outstanding display of chess excellence, Sergius Irutheeyahrajah swept through the Open Category with a perfect 6 points from 6 rounds. Irutheeyahrajah’s masterful performance included victories against all opponents, demonstrating exceptional tactical awareness and strategic depth throughout the competition. His consistent dominance secured the championship title without dropping a single point, marking him as one of the brightest prospects from the Northern Province.
R. Vaihan finished as first runner-up with an impressive 5 points from 6 rounds. Vaihan’s tournament featured strong performances with important victories and tactical draws against top competitors. His campaign included crucial wins in the middle rounds and strategic half-point results that secured the runner-up position. The performance showcased excellent positional understanding and fighting spirit throughout the event.
Abishek Naguleswaran claimed third position with 5 points from 6 rounds. Naguleswaran’s journey through the tournament was marked by powerful victories against strong opposition, including critical wins in the later rounds that confirmed the bronze medal position. His tactical skills and endgame technique were evident throughout the competition.
Aruchunan Sathesskumar finished fourth with 5 points, displaying remarkable chess prowess. Sathesskumar’s tournament featured a series of impressive victories in the opening rounds, maintaining strong form and only suffering a loss in the final round against the eventual champion.
Yarhiskar rounded out the top five with 5 points, demonstrating consistent performance throughout the championship. The campaign included important draws against top-seeded players while maintaining a strong winning record against other competitors.
Women’s Category: Rajkumar’s Perfect Performance
The Women’s Jaffna District championship witnessed an equally dominant display as Ashvitha Rajkumar emerged victorious with a perfect 6 points from 6 rounds. Rajkumar’s flawless campaign was characterized by tactical precision and strategic excellence, defeating every opponent she faced. Her commanding performance throughout the tournament established her as the undisputed champion of the category.
Satheeskumar Midrazara finished as first runner-up with 5 points from 6 rounds. Midrazara’s tournament showcased exceptional chess skills with impressive victories and crucial half-point results in the later rounds. Her fighting spirit and tactical awareness were evident as she pushed the champion until the final stages.
Asveega Sivakumaran claimed third position with 5 points from 6 rounds. Sivakumaran’s campaign featured powerful victories against strong opponents, including important wins in the crucial middle rounds that secured the bronze medal position.
S. Maathuri finished fourth with a solid 5 points from 6 rounds. Maathuri’s performance was marked by consistent play and excellent tactical execution, with decisive victories throughout the competition.
Akshara Suthan completed the top five with 4.5 points, demonstrating strong positional understanding and resilience. Suthan’s campaign included important draws in critical positions and maintained competitive play throughout the championship.
Tournament Format and Highlights
Both championships were conducted as 6-round Swiss system tournaments with standard time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment from move one. The tournaments attracted talented young players from across the Jaffna District, all demonstrating the growing strength of chess in the Northern Province.
The championship saw several thrilling encounters throughout the rounds, with players displaying advanced tactical skills and strategic planning. The competitive nature of both events highlighted the depth of young chess talent in the region, with many players showing tremendous potential for future success in national competitions.
The tournament served as an excellent platform for identifying and developing young chess talent from the Jaffna District, with both champions delivering perfect performances that will be remembered as outstanding achievements in Sri Lankan novice chess.
Congratulations to all participants and winners of the Sri Lanka National Novices Chess Championship 2026 Jaffna District. The exceptional performances demonstrated the bright future of chess in the Northern Province and showcased the dedication and talent of the region’s young players.
