De Mazenod’s batting is outstanding: Coach
The present first XI cricket team of De Mazenod College Kandana is virtually the same as last year’s with the entire set of players being around for the ongoing schools cricket season. Considering last year, this season too De Mazenod has a stronger batting line-up whilst the other departments are graded at an equal level.
“It doesn’t mean that our bowling and fielding is not at its best. In comparison with last year all three departments have improved. But the batting department is outstanding than our bowling and fielding units which are equally formidable. All in all this year’s team is well poised to take on other teams,” stated Sanjeewa Mendis, who serves in his fourth year as the Head Coach of De Mazenod.
From a strong cricket squad of 21 players, De Mazenod has seven senior players who are well challenged by the freshers. The team has potential and Coach Mendis has drawn a permanent line-up for matches and has kept a couple of slots open for the hopeful youngsters. What De Mazenod expects from the inclusion of youngsters is to give the future players the confidence with the ability to play positive cricket.
The first XI team is led by allrounder Jude Madushan, a third year player. He is assisted by fourth year player Srihan Anuruddhika, who is also a gifted allrounder. Both these players scored nearly 700 runs each last season and a lot is expected from them this season too. Wicketkeeper/batsman Supun Sanjaya, all-rounders Shanil Perera, Sachith Vishwakula and opener Romario Soyza are the seniors of the side. The side, at the same time, has the valuable contribution of a well packed batting line-up, right down to the tail.
Romario Soyza and Hansaka Warnakulasuriya are the openers of the side. Both openers have made positive and aggressive starts in the five games of the Schools Under-19 tournament played so far. This pair however have been unfortunate not to reach a partnership beyond 50 runs. Next to follow is skipper Madushan with his deputy Anuruddha coming in before three-down batsman Malshan Fernando. Supun Sanjaya, Shanil Perera, Lahiru Wickramasinghe, Shaluka Dee- mantha and Kavinda Manamperi are next in line. The team has a slot open for a player who will fit in at the bottom to balance the situation.
“These players have the skill to match any opponent. From the lot skipper Madushan, Anuruddha and Perera are batsmen who can expect to peak form as the season progresses. At the same time there are others who can make worthy contributions to the team,” added the coach.
The bowling department comprises of four seamers and six spinners, making De Mazenod rich in talent with all-rounders. The squad also has a range of fast bowlers and spinners to pick from. Among the front liners are right-armers Shanil Perera, Sachith Vishwakula. They are ably assisted by two other part-time seamers. The spin department is spearheaded by left-armer Shaluka Deemantha, who took 50 wickets last season. Lahiru Wickramasinghe is another left-armer with great potential in addition to four off-spinners and a couple of leg spin bowlers.
“There is no shortage of talent in the side. We have got immense potential and very good replacements. With all these aspects we have a well balanced unit,” Mendis added further.
In comparison to last season, where De Mazenod recorded five wins had three defeats in 14 outings, they have played five matches so far this season and are yet to record a win. Altogether De Mazenod will play 15 matches against strong opponents and they are willing to play positive cricket. Their goal is to win at least five matches and qualify for the limited overs tournament. “As coaches we encourage potential players to do well and reach certain targets during a season. The school has been assisted immensely by conducting programmes to help the players to prepare mentally for difficult encounters ahead while at the same time chasing on their individual goals. If a few players find their form, it will definitely help the progress of the team. Our expectations are turning out to be realistic with the performances displayed so far. We wish to carry forward our ambitions,” stressed the optimistic coach.