De Mazenod College, Kandana opens rejuvenated cricket ground
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The opening of the rejuvenated cricket ground of De Mazenod College, Kandana (DMC) was held on the June 7 with the presence of the chief guest, past pupil of DMC and Director of National Cadet Corps, Major General Mervyn Suneth Perera, Principal of DMC Rev. Bro. Janaka Fonseka, Deputy Principal of DMC Rev. Bro. Pubudu Rajapaksha, past cricketers and past pupils of the school.
The DMC cricket ground, one of the most priceless legacies of De Mazenod College, Kandana became a property of the school on the December 1, 1984 thanks to the Director at that time, Reverend Bro. Hugo Anthony. For over 30 years, the cricket ground with a total extent being six acres, has proven to be a priceless physical resource that was quite instrumental in molding and producing renowned national players who have brought glory to their motherland representing Sri Lanka Cricket Team.
Cricketers who went on to represent the country from DMC are, Dilhara Fernando (fast bowler – 2000), Dhammika Prasad (2007) and Lakshan Sandaken (2014). In addition six players, namely, Nalintha Perera, Charith Sylvester, Dilhara Fernando, Dhammika Prasad, Denuwan Fernando and Krishan Sanjaya were in the Sri Lanka ‘A’ team and Under-19 World Cup.
In addition, De Mazenod College proudly recognises the highly skilled and competent players who proved themselves of their unbeatable Mazenodian spirit in football, karate, gymnastics and wushu as well.
With the expansion of the college and the spectrum of sports activities, the need for the development of the cricket ground was felt by the Mazenodian family to be a prominent necessity. The cricket ground’s enhancement project began with the blessing of Rev. Bro. Janaka Fonseka as it started on June 1, 2018, with the Army personnel machinery and other necessary equipment under the approval of Sri Lanka Army. This worthy cause was fuelled By Rev. Brothers, the Staff and the well-wishers. Mr. Martinus a loyal Mazenodian and Licentiate Surveyor extended his sincere contribution in levelling and measurements. The school was also fortunate enough to receive the support from Sri Lanka Air Force captain Amith and the team who planted grass seed.
Under the cricket ground enhancement project, the college planned to refurbish the pavilion, dressing rooms and score board. In addition, the necessary arrangements was also made to maintain an auto water sprinkle system to make the grounds look green always.
The DMC Management together pwith the help of the well-wishers, past cricketers and past pupils put their hearts and efforts into this project with an eye to complete the project by 2020 in order that the Mazenodians will be provided with all necessary facilities and physical resources.
And on June 7, 2019, the soft opening of the rejuvenated ground was held. A Twenty20 cricket match was planned to be held between De Mazenod College, Kandana and St. Anne’s College, Kurunegala but unfortunately due to the bad weather conditions, it had to be cancelled.
The college wishes to express their gratitude to all the well-wishers especially the past pupils for their support in completing this project successfully.
- Hiruni Dasanayake