Longer version of game is recommended even for Under-17: Desert Cubs Coach
K.G. Priyantha, played for Isipathana, BRC, Air Force, Moratuwa, NCC and Galle before taking wings to the UAE and settle down as a coach
Dubai Desert Cubs Sports Academy Head of Operations and Senior Coach K.G. Priyantha speaking to the Sunday Times, said that School Cricket was the foundation for the National level, and young talent could be groomed better by playing the Schools Under (U)-17 Tournament over 2 days as well.
“It would give more opportunity to explore the skills and performances of individual players and catch the eye of the U-19 National selectors,” he stated.
He added that drawing school cricketers to National level would only destroy their carriers at an early stage.
“It is best that talented players be given the opportunity to represent Premier Clubs for a minimum of 2 years, then the Sri Lanka Emerging and ‘A’ teams, before being considered for selection to the National team”.
Priyantha, an ICC Level III Coach and a Level I Cricket Umpire of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB).
Priyantha represented Isipathana College in all age groups of the game and led the College 1st XI in 1987. He represented BRC, Air Force Sports Club, Moratuwa SC, NCC and Galle CC, before taking up the Coaching assignment in the UAE.
A right-arm fast bowler with an unorthodox bowling action and dreaded by batsmen, Priyantha was a member of the Sri Lanka U-19 team that toured England under the captaincy of Asanaka Gurusinha and the team that took part in the inaugural U-19 World Cup in 1988.
Speaking on team selection, he said that selection at any level should be done in consultation with the coach and captain, as winning games at any level was great.
“It motivates teams and builds confidence,” he added.