FROM THE MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS
AND SPORTS
The impact of one and a half centuries of
British rule in Sri Lanka has been one of mixed blessings.
Though this is not an occasion to evaluate the benefits or
otherwise of this heritage, we have to admit tin most of the
sports now popular in this country were introduced during this
period. Perhaps these sport may have suppressed or retarded the
development of sports indigenous of our country. As against tins
we hove to consider the fact that these new sports are more or
less international in character and our participation in
contests with other countries he/p to broaden our out-look and
also strengthen our standing ii the comity of nations.
Out of the sports introduced by the British,
Cricket has come to be one of the most popular, t Is as British as
British could be and was played throughout the Empire "on which the
sun never set". This Empire is now no more, but cricket goes on in
the former colonies to entertain young and old. Its popular
transcends narrow nationalism and political theories. It is
therefore no surprise that an avowed and-imperialist is the
distinguished President of the Board of Control for Cricket in Sri
Lanka - that's cricket.
This hundredth encounter is an occasion to
pause and take stock before we step into the next century. I view
cricket not so much as a mere game but more as a symbol. It
epitomises long training, hard wm and endurance. It also means
playing the game according to the rules, loyalty to the captain and
the institution one represents, discipline and the ability to accept
the umpire's ruling. The best side may win but win or lose,
satisfaction comes from playing the game to one's best ability.
Royal and S. Thomas' Colleges have long been
among the leading schools In the Island. They have been the
pace-setters in several spheres. This Big Match is on an example. It
is a prototype for other such matches now played even in remote
parts of the Island. Emulation is one stage in adolescence and
the behaviour of students in leading schools influences those in
others. Therefore, students in schools like Royal and S. Thomas have
to act with character and a great sense of responsibility. Cricket
is a good training ground for this.
The Centenary Match is bound to be one of the
most important sports events in this country. The interest of
present and past pupils of these two colleges, all cricketers, young
and old, and perhaps the greater part of the nation will be focused
on this event during these few days. The players would have prepared
themselves for this memorable occasion to give us of their best, but
the uncertainty of cricket is proverbial. Whoever wins or loses this
match, may this series of matches grow from strength to strength to
give us long hours of pleasant participation.
M. VINCENT PERERA
