Trinity to lose Asgiriya Stadium?

S.M. Jiffrey ABDEEN Kandy Sports Corr.

CRICKET: The Mahanayaka of the Asgiriya Chapter, the Most Venerable Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thera in a surprise move handed the administration and control of the Test Venue, the Asgiriya Cricket Stadium in Kandy to Sri Chandrananda Buddhist College at the second annual prize giving at the College at Asgiriya yesterday.

Mahanayaka Thera said that one of the shortcomings of the College was a playground and that at the inaugural prize giving he gave an assurance that steps will be taken to take over the Asigiriya as the base agreement with Trinity College had expired. But due to various problems this could not be done last year. They have also written to Trinity College on this matter without receiving a favourable reply. They had no alternative, but to take over the grounds in due course. The Mahanayaka Thera also handed the related documents to the Principal of the Sri Chandrananda Buddhist College Ven. Dr. Godagama Mangala Thera.

Deputy Principal D.A. Premaratne said that they intend taking over the grounds next month and they have already written to Trinity College to remove their moveable assets. They are looking for a curator. They have also written to Sri Lanka Cricket seeking their assistance to maintain the grounds.

He also assured that the grounds will be maintained properly and if possible upgraded. "It will remain a Test Venue."

Diyawardana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa Nilanga Dela Bandara was also present.