Cricketers inconvenienced at Uyanwatta esplanade

by Priyan de Silva - Matara Sports Correspondent

Although the Uyanwatta Cricket ground was upgraded to international standard last year, school cricketers are deprived of the use of the dressing rooms at the venue. The Uyanwatta ground is owned and maintained by the Matara Municipal Council (MMC). Schools make their reservations on the payment of a fee to them which includes the use of the pavillion and two dressing rooms within. These two dressing rooms are being used to store construction equipment and they are not available to players. The Deshamanya H. K. Dharmadasa Pavillion situated on the premises was renovated after obtaining permission from the Matara Municipal Council is now under the control of the Matara District Cricket Association (MDCA)who are demanding an equivalent sum charged by the MMC for its use.

Hence school cricketers are greatly inconvenienced without the use of dressing rooms and toilet facilities. Only one public toilet is available for the use of players and spectators at the moment. Players have to change in full view of everyone and undergo much embarrassment. It is time that the Matara Municipal Council takes steps to provide at least the basic requirements to players and officials. The ratepayers of Matara are of the view that the MDCA are having their way as it is headed by influential persons with close links to the head of state. It will be beneficial to all sports and the public if the Deshamanya H. K. Dharmadasa Pavillion is administered by the Matara Municipal Council.