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Lanka likely venue for 2006 Under-19 World Cup - Mendis
By Bernie Wijesekera
"The Under-19 World Cup will be held in the
first quarter of year 2006. In all probability it will be held here",
said Duleep Mendis the Chief Executive Officer, Sri Lanka Cricket,
in an interview with The Sunday Times. Mendis attended the Chief
Executive Officers ICC meeting held in London recently. Mendis was
the only official who attended the confab from the SLC.
Q:
What were the key issues in the agenda, pertaining to international
cricket?
A: Recommendations were discussed and others had to be
ratified. There were lengthy discussions over the hosting of the
next Youth Under-19 World Cup. Despite the Tsunami disaster, there
was compassion for Sri Lanka by other controlling bodies. But now
life here has come back to normal. They found that the facilities
were there to hold an international tournament - barring Galle Esplanade.
This was key issue. The ICC has confidence in the present administration
of the SLC. They have recommended that Sri Lanka be the venue for
the Youth World Cup to be held next year.
Q:
When you are going to hold it?
A: In the first quarter - (Jan. Feb or March). The Board
of Directors of the ICC have to ratify it. SLC is confident of getting
the green light. We got tremendous support towards this end at this
meeting.
Q:
How many officials from the SLC went for the CEOs meeting - Are
you aware that rumours are floating around that officials are making
regular trips abroad (like tourists at the SLC expenses). Any comments?
A: For the CEOs meeting I was the sole representative.
Only the key officials of the SLC (Ex-Co) had to be present at crucial
meetings of the ICC. It's a "must", at all levels. Whatever
the arm-chair critics had to say - the present management is transparent.
The SLC, is too happy if shortcomings are spotlighted. Being the
CEO, I will take remedial measures.
Q:
What was the other important issue that was came up for discussion?
A: Ninety nine percent of the bowlers tend to bend at
the point of delivery. There was a lengthy discussion over this.
Finally it was resolved that the bowler be allowed with 15 degree
(all bowlers). However if the two umpires and the mach referee (with
their naked eyes) think that still the bowler oversteps the line.
Then he will be reported. The bowler concerned will have to undergo
a Lab test and may be suspended for a period of time until the results
and adjusts himself.
Q:
What have you got to say about some national players due to over
enthusiasm crossing the danger zone (speaking out of turn)?
A: They have to adhere to a code of ethics. I believe
they are matured enough to understand the Dos and Donts. They have
to maintain their own integrity. There should be peace and harmony
between the players and the administration for the greater good
of the game.
Q: What have you got to say about present -day school cricket?
A: Its our main nursery to harness talent at grassroots level. Apparently
standards have deteriorated unlike in the past at present - the
schoolboys play, too much of cricket (more matches). There is mental
fatigue. As a result they are injury prone. Hardly any time to recover.
In the past matches were played on Friday to Saturday. But today
apparently even two to three matches a week. Not even a (man of
steel) could withstand this pressure professional cricketers. Moment
a school loses a couple of games, there is no respite. But they
are made to grind to the hilt (more practice sessions). Even an
engine needs time to cool down. Even the poor coach is being taken
to task. They undergo a fear psychosis. At times may lose his job.
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