The Kandy District Cricket Association, an affiliate of Sri Lanka Cricket, conducted its Annual Awards Presentation Ceremony, recently to facilitate talented young cricketers of the district who excelled during the year 2024.
The ceremony conducted as part of Sri Lanka Cricket’s National Development Pathway of ‘Cricket Gamata,’ the effort is aimed at encouraging the young cricketers to pursue cricket to reach the international stage”.
This prestigious ceremony was held in recognition and to facilitate the young cricketing talent across the district who represent Sri Lanka in various international age-group / tours.
Mr. Sujeeva Godaliyadda, Honorary Treasurer of Sri Lanka Cricket, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and Mr. Janaka Pathirana, Executive Committee Member of Sri Lanka Cricket made the presence as the Guest of Honor.
Leading the list of honorees was Pulindu Perera of Dharmaraja College, a standout performer who has earned selection for four major Sri Lanka Under 19 assignments the Under 19 World Cup, Under 19 Asia Cup, Under 19 tour of England, and the Sri Lanka A team. Pulindu’s consistent performances with both bat and ball have made him a vital asset in Sri Lanka’s youth setup, and his selection across multiple platforms is a testament to his versatility and commitment to the sport.
Also recognized was Aseni Thalagune from Mahamaya Girls’ College, who has made her mark in the women’s circuit with selections for the Sri Lanka Under 19 Women’s Asia Cup squad and the Under 19 Women’s tour of Australia. Her all-round skills and passion for the game have not only brought pride to her school but also underscored the rising prominence of women’s cricket in the region.
Among the Sri Lanka Under 17 players chosen for the Bangladesh tour of Sri Lanka were Kenula Pihilianga (Kingswood College), Ryan Gregory (St. Anthony’s College), and Sethmika Senevirathne (Trinity College). These young cricketers have been making waves in the school circuit and now have a golden opportunity to shine on the international stage.
The Under 19 Boys squad for the England tour includes Sheshan Marasinghe (Dharmaraja College) and Thisara Ekanayake (St. Anthony’s College), both of whom have showed exceptional talent and potential. Their inclusion signals the confidence the national selectors have in their ability to perform under foreign conditions.
Kavija Gamage (Kingswood College) and Lakvin Abeysinghe (Dharmaraja College) were also honored for their selection to the U-19 Asia Cup, further establishing Dharmaraja College’s growing reputation as a cradle for cricketing talent.
Another proud moment came for Supun Waduge of Trinity College, who secured a place in the Sri Lanka U-19 World Cup squad. Known for his solid technique and composure under pressure, Supun is expected to play a key role in Sri Lanka’s campaign.
The felicitation ceremony held by KDCA not only celebrated these young cricketers but also served as an inspiration to countless aspiring cricketers in the region. Addressing the gathering, SLC Treasurer Sujeeva Godaliyadda emphasized the importance of strong grassroots programs and praised the KDCA for its continuous support in developing talent.
KDCA President and officials pledged continued backing for school-level cricket and emphasized the role of education and discipline in shaping successful sportsmen and women. As Kandy’s cricketing future looks brighter than ever, the region stands proud of its contribution to Sri Lanka’s national squads, with hopes of seeing many of these young stars transition into full-fledged international players in the years to come.
