Cricket Tour to Sri Lanka – Report

12th November 2019

Keen College cricketers were lucky to tour Sri Lanka over the half-term break, accompanied by Director of Cricket and former Kent and Notts County professional, Rob Ferley, and former England International, James Tredwell. The trip saw them play four very entertaining games with each and every player contributing superbly in an environment of stifling humidity.

The opportunity to embrace a different culture and play at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (also known as Muttiah Muralitharan International Cricket Stadium) will live long in the memories of the 12 Eastbourne College cricketers. Tawanda Muyeye (who scored over 1000 runs last season, including two double-centuries) marked the occasion with a sparkling 120 not out (off 70 balls), with Alfie Hunter the pick of the bowlers.

The Foundation of Goodness ground brought one of the most amazing performances for the College in their short form history. A 15-over match saw the team hit 199 runs with a remarkable 17 sixes clouted over the rope. Jani Flind, the chief protagonist, hit nine sixes and finished on a blistering 80 not-out (off 37 balls).

Cultural enrichment

It could be said that the cricket played second fiddle to the tour activity schedule with the boys given the opportunity to create lifelong memories each and every day. This was especially welcome when torrential rain flooded the venue in a couple of inches of water on the fifth day of the tour, postponing the scheduled match for two days.

Trips to the elephant sanctuary, the tsunami museum, a turtle hatchery and haggling in the local markets were all extremely humbling and unforgettable experiences. The opportunity to release rescued turtles into the sea will be something they never forget, as will the chance to swim with turtles in the bay at the last hotel in Hikkaduwa.

To watch a short film about the outstanding sports provision at Eastbourne College, click here.

Below are some more photos from the Sri Lanka tour. Please click / tap on the thumbnails to see the images in full size.