Brian de Silva passes away

Brian de Silva a former St. Peter's College cricketer passed away on Saturday morning after bravely borne illness.

De Silva was one of the most stylish opening batsman and wicket keeper that the school at Bambalapitiya produced. He was a right hand batsman.

He played several years for the school in the early 1950s and many were the big scores he made. As a wicket keeper he was in the class of Dr H.I.K. Fernando another Peterite who later went on to play for Ceylon and who was classed as the best gloveman in Asia.

After a successful school cricket career de Silva joined Colts Cricket Club and shone as a wicket keeper/batsman. He represented the Colts for many years and had the distinction of captaining the Havelock Park Club in the P. Sara tournament.

As a batsman he was twinkle toed, very stylish and his favourite stroke was the cut that he played with great aplomb. He played in the company of many illustrious Peterite cricketers whose names do not come to mind.

De Silva was a live wire at parties and was a raconteur par excellence.

His brother Maurice now domiciled in Brisbane, Australia also played cricket for St. Peter's, but shone more at rugby representing the Havelocks Sports Club and country with distinction. His younger brother Len too played for Havelocks.

Brian leaves his wife Clare and children Ravi, Druvi and Minuka. Son Ravi played cricket for St. Joseph's.

May his soul rest in peace. - Elmo Rodrigopulle