Junior cricket is very important says Aravinda

CRICKET: The 10th Astra School Cricket Championship conducted by the Sri Lanka Schools Cricket Association (SLACA) and sponsored by Unilever had its prize distribution last Monday (March 24) at the BMICH with former Sri Lanka captain Sanath Jayasuriya as the chief guest.

One of the most coveted tournaments for young aspiring cricketers saw Wesley win the Under-13, title, St. Peter's Under-15 and Mahinda Under-17.

"Cricket is very popular in the country and Astra recognised it as it was an ideal opportunity to built a platform that would set these young cricketers on the right track by developing their personalities, attitudes and values to built a solid foundation for their future growth as individual. This awards ceremony is a special occasion to acknowledge and regard the talent of the young cricketers" said Miss Ganga Hewage, Assistant Band Manager for Astra at Unilever.

The tournament has been credited for drawing outstation schools to showcase their talents with competitive performance. In 2007, it was held in three categories (Under-13, 15 and 17) and its attraction to juniors was commended by batting legend Aravinda de Silva, who said that junior cricket is a very important stage in a cricketers career.

(L.G.)