Provide facilities for the differently abled at sports stadia - Dr Ajith C S Perera

Priyan de Silva Matara Sports Correspondent

International day of differently abled persons falls today and it would be most unfair if no mention is made of Dr Ajith C S Perera.

Perera, a keen cricketer, a professional umpire, a scorer and a training instructor before a freak accident left him a paraplegic for life in 1992.

Subsequently he was named as an examiner on laws of cricket, he authored two books on cricket and and is an activist for the provision of enabling facilities for all at cricket stadias in the island. The ‘Wisden Cricketers’ Almanac named him as one of eight individuals to be recognized for their many achievements and contributions to the game in many different forms.

Perera has campaigned tirelessly for equal opportunity, justice and dignity for all people in day today life.

“Cricket, football and rugby are spectator sports. There are more than three million Sri Lankans inclusive of the elderly who experience restricted mobility and or ability which in turn should not deprive them of being spectators at a sporting event they love. It is not only the entering and sitting but toilets and cafeterias should be accessible too!” he emphasized.