U-17 cricketers worked hard to win Cup - Manager

Chinthana Wasala

CRICKET: With all the players giving of their best, Sri Lanka easily beat all other three competitors to win the Golden Hope International, Under - 17 Challenge Trophy, said Malcolm Perera, the team Manager.

Sri Lanka was unbeaten throughout the tournament and managed to beat the tougher opponents, Bangladesh Easily by four wickets in the final. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka entered the final of the Quadrangular Tournament, beating the other two teams, Malaysia and Singapore.

Kusal Janith Perera was named the player of the tournament for his excellent performance with the bat and the gloves. Captain Sachith Pathirana was adjudged the Man of the Match in the final. He was unlucky not to be adjudged the best bowler of the tournament as he was short of only one wicket, taking 15 wickets in the tournament. Fast bowlers Tisara Perera, and Vimanga Perera bowled extremely well, said Perera.

They were well supported by the other bowlers. The Sri Lankan fast bowlers struck early blows in the matches by dismissing the opponents' openers cheaply. And along with them, Sri Lankans tied down the other batsmen, not allowing them to score runs freely.

Sri Lankan batting line-up was strengthened by Ashan Priyanjan and Angelo Perera. Their fielding was excellent with only one catch being dropped.

The team manager also stated that every player of the squad was given a chance to play at least one match.

The Sri Lankan youngsters adjusted well to the playing conditions. They gave of their best and had a good understanding of each other.

The King of Malaysia was the Chief Guest of the opening and the closing ceremonies of the Golden Hope International.

Sri Lankan Cricket is expecting to continue with these players by offering more exposure to them. We are looking forward to see these players play for the national team in the future," said Perera.