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Nelson to handle Nalanda College Junior Academy
By Bernie Wijesekera
If any sport is to develop it must be started at grassroots level. Nalanda, with a slow beginning in 1947 after the second World War had a daunting task to be on par with the willow wielding sport among other leading schools. Nothing was on a platter. Not even a pavilion unlike at present times other than a cadjan shed.

Then came the wake up call in 1947 through the personal efforts of the then Prefect of Games, T. Kandaswamy, a diehard cricket fan and a firm disciplinarian. he got the services of Gerry Gooneratne, an old Joe and an outstanding All Ceylon cricketer and a knowledgeable student of the game. There were no past cricketers' Association or outside interference unlike at present times with personal interest.

The past cricketers of Nalanda have formed an association headed by Upul Gamage with a vision for the development of the game at all levels. This was revealed at a media discussion held at the Ministry of Sports chaired by Gamage in association with Nelson Mendis. He has been appointed the head coach. The NPCA has got the blessings from the Principal H.U. Prematilleke for this new concept.

Mendis, a product of Dharmosoka has been involved in the sport at club level with much success in the tournaments organised by the BCCSL.With his English background and the ability to communicate in both languages should stand in good stead for the juniors for their future betterment.

Nelson will train the players at grassroots level. He is a Level IV coach. He has the administrative skills holding key posts in the Public and later in the Private Sector (Singer Sri Lanka). Gamage said that it will be open to all - sans any barriers. Otherwise the PCA will be putting old wine in a new bottle. Mendis will be the head coach. He will oversee the Academy. Milton de Silva, the Assistant Coach will handle the First XI for 2003-04.

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