Gurukula Vidyalaya, Kelaniya will be making their debut in the Under-19 Division I School cricket tournament. However they certainly cannot be rated as minnows of the game.
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| Roshan Anuruddha (Captain), Nalin Perera, Hashan Dumindu, Dushan Dhanushka, Namal Pathum, Shehan Lakshitha, Lisula Lakshan, Shasheen Dilranga, Kasun Madushanka, Kristi Ashan, Chamodh Sulakshana, Anjana Nimnath, Kasun Jayasanka, Lahiru Madushan, Chanaka Dilshan, Lal Senadheera (Coach), Rasika Dilshan (Asst Coach). |
Last year Gurukula played 14 games in the Division II segment and had an impressive record of nine wins that propped them up to Division I this year. So far they have played three matches and won one indicating that they are determined to stay at the top. Gurukula have been playing cricket for the past 31 years with determination in order to make an impact in the top league.
To make that dream a reality Gurukula has a balanced side this year under the captaincy of 16-year-old Roshan Anuruddha who is their most experienced campaigner. This year Anuruddha will be playing his fourth season with the first XI team. By the time he ends his school career it will be after three years. Along with Anuruddha are Hashan Dumindu, Chamodh Sulakshana, Dushan Dhanushka and deputy skipper Nalin Perera as seniors of the side. These five and Lisula Lakshan make up the top order of the batting line up and all of them were in great touch last season.
The Gurukula side has a steady bowling attack comprising a few seamers and spinners. Among the fast bowlers are skipper Anuruddha and his deputy Perera, who are in the frontline. Off-spinner Dumindu and leg-spinner Namal Pathum are the two leading turners in the side while there are occasional spinners who can play cameo roles. Around six young players from the Under-15 and 17 squads have shown great potential and are making steady progress with the seniors. “Comparing with last year’s team the experience is less but we have the talent and potential to improve. We hope to win at least four games from 16 games and qualify for the second round,” said skipper Anuruddha.
The side is coached by Lal Senaratne who has been the live-wire of Gurukula cricket for the past six years. Senaratne plays a dual role – as a coach and as master-in-charge. As a result he has a good knowledge of the players’ background. His view is that Gurukula could become a top contender in school cricket in years to come.
“This is the first time our players have been experiencing turf wickets. This has been a great challenge for us. So far the boys have managed to adjust themselves to the situations and conditions. This proves that they are keen to take up any challenge. Our intention is to exist in this league for at least two years,” Senaratne said.
(Pix by Amila Prabodha) |
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