Prof. Arjuna heads new SLC medical advisory committee
Professor Arjuna de Silva
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has taken a significant step forward in looking after the mental well-being of cricketers with the inclusion of a psychiatrist into the newly formed five-member Medical Advisory Committee.
Though the committee’s first priority would be to help Sri Lanka create a bio-secure environment to resume international cricket – a major challenge amidst the global health crisis created by COVID-19 – they will play an important role in helping cricketers to cope with the surging mental issues.
Even though there are no evidence to suggest on the subject of professional sports persons’ experience mental health issues at a higher rate than the general population, experts believe that cricket’s unique demands have put cricketers increasingly vulnerable to relentless mental challenges.
“Cricket is a high pressure game,” said Ashley de Silva, CEO SLC.
“I don’t think people from outside could understand the pressure the players go through. There were a number of cricketers who have returned home from tours due to mental issues. Just as we look after the physical well-being of the cricketers, we have decided to look after the mental side in order for them to perform better.”
Dr. Chamara Weerasinghe is the consultant psychiatrist in the panel.
The eminent panel headed by Professor Arjuna de Silva – a consultant physician and the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency also includes Dr. Maiya Gunasekara, a consultant surgeon and Gastroenterology, Dr. Harindu Wijesinghe, a consultant rheumatologist and specialist in sports medicine, and Dr. Daminda Attanayake, a sports and exercise physician attached to the National Institute of Sports Medicine.
“Our first priority would be to ensure a bio-secure environment for cricketers to resume international cricket,” said Prof. de Silva. “But our job is to address all health and injury issues relating to cricketers and coaching staff.”
Prof. de Silva who has worked in a similar capacity is a popular figure among athletes, notably cricketers.
“He did a fantastic job last time he was in the committee. He was very close to the players and that helped players to open up when in need of help. It’s the same with all other individuals in the panel,” commented Ashley de Silva.
Sri Lanka expects to resume international cricket in October when Bangladesh arrive here for a three-match Test series – the national team’s first outing since the West Indies series in February.