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Another cricket season begins
With the tropical conditions that prevail in this country cricket can be played year round and so it happens. Some games are affected by rain but not much more affects the game. In Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand the sport is strictly seasonal. There is always a keen sense of anticipation as the days draw nigh.

August - September is when the activity begins in Sri Lanka. Already the under 23 tournament has been concluded. It was encouraging to see Chilaw Marians emerge champions defeating the S.S.C. Last year the team from Chilaw had to be contended with second place, but this year they secured the top spot and deservedly so.
The playing facilities must be looked into in that area. There must be a turf pitch ground somewhere in Wennappuwa or Chilaw, with turf practice facilities too. A gymnasium, with access to those playing cricket is also essential.

These facilities are also a must for towns South of Colombo, namely Panadura and Kalutara. Panadura SC has a ground but is too small and not up to first class level. Kalutara is also starved of these facilities. There are many emerging cricketers from all these areas. They require the facilities to improve and good coaching for the most of their talents to be realized.

Whilst all this is not their responsibility the players can only go out and perform. So they gear for a season, which will last for the next seven months or so. School cricket always attracts attention. The spectator participation has totally dwindled. Except for the big matches played once a year, past pupils and cricket enthusiasts cannot afford the time to spend watching school cricket. In fact the same could be said of club cricket.

Sport requires an audience. In fact some top players raise their game on the big occasion and at times cannot motivate themselves when the atmosphere is lacking.
Beggars cannot be choosers it is said and so schoolboys in particular have to often be satisfied with primitive conditions, considering what is now available for those playing in richer cricketing nations. This makes it tough to practice the correct techniques of the game. Often it results in bad habits creeping into the way an individual bats and bowls.

With all these hazards and shortcomings the game will go on. Many players will make big scores, others will capture a rich haul of wickets. Teams will strive to go to the top and win tournaments. The rivalry and competition will continue. So too playing the sport in the spirit it is meant to be played will be maintained by most.

Grasp the techniques and develop ability - should be top priority. Setting short term and long term goals to be achieved during the season is essential. Develop speed, strength, stamina and agility to enhance performance. Progress in supporting areas such as advanced forms of training, practicing with a purpose always, running between wickets, fielding and assisting teammates to progress.

Above all, the game must be enjoyed. It must be played with tremendous passion. May this season that has commenced in Sri Lanka be that way. May it also bring out the best in players, so that there will be more individual challenging for positions in the ‘A’ team and the National Team.

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