Although Mathew had met the IOC approved 'B' category qualifying mark, he had done so after the IOC deadline and after the privilege quota of the category had exceeded, it adds.

Therefore, Mathew will be competing as a wildcard entry, the newspaper says.

The International Swimming Federation (FINA) had informed of this to the Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Association, it further says.

The 'Ravaya' also says that reports incorrectly citing that Mathew was the first Sri Lankan swimmer to directly qualify for the Olympics (and not as a wildcard entry), remained unrectified by the Sports ministry as the minister is close friends with Manoj Abeysinghe, who is the father and coach of Mathew.

Mathew, the fastest swimmer in the South Asian region met the IOC approved 'B' category qualifying mark after finishing the Men’s 100m Freestyle event in 50.53s at the Hong Kong Swimming Circuit Championship.

A young swimmer with immense potential, Mathew won 7 gold medals 2 silver and 1 bronze at the last South Asian Games held in India. With this achievement, Matthew broke the record for the most gold medals in the South Asian Games by a Sri Lankan. (The record was previously set by Julian Bolling in year 1991. )