“We built the 18 nets in Khettarama in 2002 but since then there has been no development. A Center of Excellence – Indoor nets and swimming pool is the main priority.” Sidath Wettimuny addressed
The Chairman of the news Interim Committee for Sri Lanka Cricket was speaking at the first of the monthly press briefings of the Interim Committee which he promised to hold when he took over office to keep the media and the stakeholders updated on the work in progress and plans.
During the three weeks they were in office having studied the current administrative and financial status of Sri Lanka Cricket the Interim Committee has come up with certain areas which need immediate attention, while freezing all non-critical capital expenditure.
One of which is the Indoor Nets facility and the swimming pool which fast bowling legend Lasith Malinga has been an outspoken critic about.
“An indoor facility is very important as it gives flexibility for the players to have practices at any given time – early mornings or evenings as well as when weather does not permit. Also the swimming pool because it is a main part of the modern game with recovery and rehabilitation.” Wettimuny added.
Sri Lanka Cricket plans on starting this initiative as early as June 2015 and finance permitting to provide the same to Dambulla, Pallekelle, Sooriyawewa and Galle.
Importance was also given on the selection and its policy where the new selectors headed by Kapila Wijegunawardene had spent a lot of time talking to the players of Sri Lanka A and the Ladies’ squad. The National Selection Committee will prepare a Policy Framework for Selection where the focus will be on preparation for the 2016 World T20 and 2019 World Cup.
“We are also looking at player contracts. Need to reduce the number of contracted players from 108 because we need to add value to contracted players. We need to make every level of cricket something to look forward to.” Wettimuny talked about the nursery of Sri Lanka Cricket.
“Premier cricketers are only paid 2,500 per day. We are planning on increasing it to 7,500 per day for all 14 and to improve the bench. This will enhance the value of a Premier Player. The same with Provincial player which will make cricket a livelihood. Each player has to aspire to work hard and get to the other level.” he went on to say.
The Interim Committee is further invested on improving the National Cricketers ‘soft-skills’ – dealing with the media, computer skills, etiquette at social events and public presentations, particularly when on tour overseas with a view to enhancing the player’s confidence. The programme according to the chairman will start at the beginning of May of which – General English, Sports Psychology, Spirit of the Game, Financial Management, Leadership and Yoga takes importance.
