Article by Yeshan Ranatunga
Trinity College’s cricket journey continues to soar, and we’re thrilled to share another spectacular feat achieved by one of our emerging cricketing talents during the recently concluded cricketing season of the Under 17 Division 1 team, that spanned between June-August this year. In the recently concluded U17 Division 1 Cricket Tournament, the spotlight was on skipper Dimantha Mahavithana, whose batting prowess stole the show with a sensational display of skill and determination.
In a build-up that led to the Quarter Finals, Dimantha Mahavithana etched his name into cricket history during the match against Bandaranaike College Gampaha, with an astounding double century, comprising an impressive 23 boundaries and 7 sixes, at the Sri Lanka Army Singha Regiment Ground at Ambepussa. This monumental score left spectators in awe, as he not only set a new record for the highest individual score in the Under 17 Competition, but also secured his position as the highest run-scorer for the team. His incredible tally of 387 runs at an average of 64.5, showcased his exceptional form and dedication.
Throughout the season, the Trinity U17 Division 1 team unveiled a collection of standout performances, which eventually led them to the coveted semifinals of the tournament. A key figure in this journey was Chaniru Senaratne, whose all-round excellence earned him the distinction of being the team’s top wicket-taker with an impressive 11 scalps. Notably, Senaratne also flaunted his batting prowess by notching a century during one of his innings.
Adding to the team’s success, top-order batsman Pulisha Thilakarathne delivered a standout performance by scoring a century, contributing significantly to the team’s overall tally of 247 runs for the season and securing the position of the second-highest run-scorer. The left-arm orthodox bowling duo of Ammar Manzil and Kanilka Anthony also played a pivotal role by consistently spinning a spectacular a web against every opponent. Together, they tallied a commendable 13 wickets, cementing their place as crucial assets for the team’s bowling lineup.
Trinity College extends its heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated coaching and support staff led by Mr. Naveen Ekanayake, supported by Mr. Lakshitha Alahakoon. Their guidance and expertise undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping the team’s success.
Once again, we wholeheartedly congratulate the U17 Division 1 Team on their exceptional journey, and we reserve a special commendation for Dimantha Mahavithana for inscribing his name in the annals of cricketing history with his remarkable performance that will be remembered for years to come.
Trinity U17A Squad: Dimantha Mahavithana (C), Pulessha Thilakaratne, Kavindu Jayaratne, Aadham Hilmy, Viduneth Dhammage, Ammar Manzil, Mahendra Abeysinghe, Sethmika Seneviratne, Sajana Weerasekara, Chaniru Senaratne, Ashwin Herath, Malika Vithanage, Ranul Gunarathna, Dinal Fernando, Kanilka Anthony
