B Molligoda: Sri Lankan cricketers to play for Counties (1 Aug 1998)

1 August 1998

Sri Lankan cricketers to play for counties in England

Bandula Molligoda

The Chairman of the Sri Lanka Cricket Committee in England Asitha Jayaweera said that his committee is making arrangements to give opportunities for Sri Lanka's young and talented cricketers to play for four counties in England for them to get accustomed to the wickets and the climate in England.

He said that he has already had discussions with the counties of Somerset, Glamorgan, Leicestershire and Hampshire in this regard and that there has been a favourable response.

He said that the objective of his committee is to make them gain experience by playing for the county teams or in the league tournaments. He also said these players will be paid the normal stipend. He said that since doctors, engineers and professionals in other fields are serving in the committee and he hopes to pay an allowance to these players by setting up a fund for this purpose.

Under this program at least two young Sri Lanka players will find places in each county.

Reciprocating this move by the English counties young English players will be invited to play for Sri Lanka's cricket clubs. This will be to the benefit of both countries as English players too will be able to familiarize themselves with Sri Lanka conditions.

Mr. Jayaweera said that he will make arrangements to provide the young Sri Lanka players with lodging etc. and in conclusion mentioned that this is the first time that a program like this is being implemented and that it will augur well for cricket in Sri Lanka

Source :: Daily News (https://www.lanka.net)