and strong opposition all our matches became real challenges. We did, however, see the ‘A’ team win a very exciting 50 overs match with Bell and Rikki Clarke showing full England potential.An outstanding perfor- mance really belonged to the ‘A’ side manager Rodney Marsh who, in the stifling heat, ‘power walked’ around the ground the whole day in almost total silence – not even a g’day. We were able to record one success at Dambulla , the loveliest of grounds in the Kandy Hills. Scoring 160 in 35 overs we bowled and fielded like we did as youngsters and defeat a strong Under 19
Representative side who had two days earlier beaten a touring Durham University X1 by 11 runs. The hills were alive with the sound of music and drinking Ceylon tea!
During several of our matches we came across some eally talented young cricketers who had played good club in England in the Middlesex and Kent Leagues, Many more wished to come to play. In Hampshire there is now a requirement that overseas players are also qualified
coaches up to Level Two.That is not easy to obtain in Sri Lanka so, regrettably, few will be able to play in our club sides.
If this is not a requirement in your county I strongly recommend consideration of Sri Lankan players; good batsmen, excellent spin bowlers and very keen to learn.
Our re-arranged tour meant that we saw very little Tusnami after effects, although the presentation we had from Sri Lankan Cricket - Aid on the destruction of the north east and south west coast around the Galle area was most moving. Funds are getting through and the rebuilding of the infrastructure is underway.
The restoration of the cricket stadium at Galle will take two to three years but it will be done. In a farewell to us the Sri Lanka Sports Minister said the best thing we England could do to help rebuild his country was to come and play cricket there. Please go you will not be disappointed.
Finally for those of you now into golf and cricket the Royal Colombo Golf Club is superb and the Victoria Club in kandy is so lovely its where the gods play their monthly stableford. |
