Richard Pieris and Company (Arpico) roared its way to an electrifying tournament win with a victory over DPMC in the final of the MCA ‘D’ Division 50 overs League Tournament. Inspired by Arpico stalwart Athula Wickramatilake’s innings of 58 from just 45 balls, the Arpico Sports Club successfully chased a target of 201 runs in 42.5 overs with three wickets to spare.

Courageously standing up to a torrid display of fast bowling, opener Athula Wickramatilake smashed 10 fours and 2 sixes before he was struck on the face by a rising good length delivery in the 15th over, causing him to fall onto his wicket. Even in his semi-conscious state, Athula was overheard exhorting his teammates to “go all out for victory” as he was carried off the field. He was immediately taken to the accident ward where he received almost 30 stitches on his face and mouth.

Taking his words to heart, the Arpico batsmen who followed, including Mahesh Kumara (30), skipper Sameera Perera (28) and ‘Mr. Reliable’, Ruwan Kariyawasam (30), built upon the platform laid by Athula and strengthened their team’s position by accumulating 150 runs in 180 balls. Arpico’s 8th wicket pair, all-rounder Duminda Perera (25 not out in 24 balls with 4 fours) and Lakdil Fernando (10 not out), steered their side to victory with a tenacious 36 run partnership. After winning the toss, Arpico had sent DPMC in to bat and were rewarded with a fine spell from their opening bowler, all-rounder Duminda Perera, who bagged 3 wickets for 35 runs in eight overs. Arpico’s ace spinner Wasantha Warnapura was as miserly as he was incisive, with match figures of 4 wickets for just 18 runs in 9.1 overs. Duminda Perera also captured the Man-of-the-Match award for his efforts with both bat and ball.

Arpico Sports Club steamrolled its way to the league title and the ‘Elephant Lemonade’ Cup, dropping only one match and defeating strong teams including Shaw Wallace Company in the semi-finals.