Cricket: Ranjith Samarasekera -- the allround sportsman

The Anthonian Cricketing fraternity is immensely Saddened by the passing away of Ranjith Samarasekera at the age of 78. 

Ranjith's services to his Alma Mater took many forms. 

Representing the College cricket team from 1955 to 1959, he played in the company of stalwarts such as Ranjith Doranegama, S.W. Seneviratne at al and showed that he was in no way their inferior. 

He had another string to his bow. 

He established a meet record in the Javelin Throw event at the Public Schools Athletic Championships in the late fifties. 

For his stellar performances in these two sports, he was selected the Best All Round Sportsman at St. Anthony’s in both 1958 and 1959. 

The highest award for sports at the college – the Eagle – was awarded to him in both sports – cricket and Athletics. 

That was a rare achievement. 

Ranjith had a life-long association with the Colts Cricket Club as a player, coach and President. 

He guided many Anthonians to this Club and mentored them in many ways. 

His home at Minuwangoda was a haven for any Anthonian who was in need. 

With Anthonian Cricket in the doldrums in the late 1990’s, Ranjith took the initiative to establish ‘The Anthonian Cricket Wing’ in 2001. 

Thanks to his guidance, the cricket wing in rendering a valuable service to the school. 

Anthonian cricket, and cricketers, owe him a big debt. 

Finding cricketing opportunities at clubs for Anthonians, securing employment and providing accommodation (when necessary) were all grist to his mill. 

The late Ranjith was generous, gregarious and the life and soul of any Anthonian gathering. 

The fact that he was able to have a crack or two at his own expense, endeared him to many. 

He was a former Chairman of the National Selection Committee of the Cricket Board.