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| Sunday, 5 September 2004 |
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Murali - the gentleman cricketer by Dr. Quintus de Zylva as told to A.C. de Silva
Sri Lanka's ace spinner Muttiah Muralitharan's recent visit to Victoria, Australia has been beneficial in more than one way for Sri Lanka. First, his troublesome right shoulder was put right by Dr. Paul Marks - the Managing Specialist Radiologist at the Avenue Hospital in Melbourne. This gesture came through the kind courtesy of Dr. David Young whose budding friend Dr. Quintus de Zylva - one of the Trustees of the Sri Lanka Cricket Foundation of Victoria moved quickly and rushed Murali to Australia for medical attention so that the ace bowler would be able to get on the cricket field before long. Sri Lanka figured very prominently in this four-cornered "operation" as Radiologist Dr. Marks is the son of former Sri Lankan (Ceylon then) swim champ Geoff Marks who really excelled in the Mount Lavinia two-mile sea swim. Dr. David Young has been to Sri Lanka before and so has Dr. Quintus de Zylva. It was not all hospital stay for the Lankan bowler as he was a much sought after personality. There are many sides to great sportsmen, though some not complimentary. Not all sportsmen can be used as role models for children, some sportsmen have a great impact on the younger generation. There was a 'date' for Murali out of his treatment centre to be with the children and staff of Mentone Grammar School in Victoria and as his name has never been associated with murky waters of bribery, corruption, deceit or intemperate behaviour, the younger set of Aussies was longing to see the star-class bowler. Though his arm was in a sling, Murali accepted the invitation of Mentone Grammar School to speak to their prep school boys. The young boys were thrilled to see the champion bowler amongst them and questions posed by four and five year old's were answered by him. Questions ranged: 'What other games have you played', 'how old were you when you first started to play cricket?' 'What made you the world's greatest Test wicket-taker?' John Nolan, the Director of the Prep School wrote: "As an educator, I consider inclusions into our curriculum such as your visit so beneficial as well as extremely exciting, particularly when that person like yourself presents such gentlemanly qualities". Treasured moments Director Nolan in a letter to Murali says: "I am sure the younger boys will treasure the day when they were at school and were visited by the 'World's Best Bowler', for such a rare opportunity can have enormous impacts of their lives. Without question, the senior boys were 'bowled over'. You really made an enormous impression on them and apparently they have not stopped talking about meeting the 'great cricketer' from Sri Lanka. In phone conversation with the Deputy Headmaster, Mal Cater he explained how rapt the boys were in meeting Murali and how disappointed those who didn't were. I know that should there ever be the opportunity when you can again visit our school, you will be more than welcomed". "On a personal note, I have sent you three cricket balls I would love you to sign with best wishes from you to three of my nephews (I have twelve in all, but I won't push my luck), Christopher, Jonathan and Matthew. I know they will be 'over the moon'. Christopher in particular is a promising cricketer, but I know all three of the boys will treasure such a memento. For this I would be most appreciative". "As a not particularly knowledgeable or skilled person in cricket, I must say that I was also excited in meeting such a champion of the game and I know I will listen to and follow it much closer having met you". The comments made by Director John Nolan can be considered complimentary indeed for a Sri Lankan cricketer coming from the top man of the school that boasts of having cricketers of the calibre of Shane Warne and Dev Whatmore as students in years gone by. Finally, Prep School boss wished Muralitharan a speedy recovery, and mentioned the fact Sri Lanka is a fine country. 'My memories of Sri Lanka and its people are only wonderful and one day I hope to return and enjoy the travels of my past with my wife'. Murali, at the age of 32 is Sri Lanka's most famous expert and he has done his country proud in the manner in which he has conducted himself on the international cricket circuit. It was Tony Greig and Ian Chappell who once said that they have never seen a bowler smile after he was called for an illegal delivery and return to his bowling crease without a murmur and continue to bowl to the best of his ability. Muttiah Muralitharan will forever remain an excellent role model for youngsters who will one day realise that you can achieve the highest goals by diligence and hard work. Jonathan Swift (1667-1745) wrote 'When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him'. Take heart Murali - you are amongst the greatest. We are proud of you. |
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