Professor Arjuna De Silva, the outgoing chairman of Management Committee at Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), made an everlasting impact during his short tenure!
A well reputed medical professional, Professor Arjuna was given the responsibility to run the Maitland Place day to day affairs in the first week of April, when Shammi Silva committee’s term had expired. Since then in his short term, Professor Arjuna made his presence felt, with his vision, planning and transparency!
“He made an immediate impression and was widely appreciated by genuine people in Sri Lanka Cricket. The game was fortunate to have him at helm in last 6 weeks” a top SLC official told Cricket Age.
In a short spam of time, Professor Arjuna’s committee streamlined payments, brought in more transparency and increased the emphasis on players fitness. His way of handling controversial issues like Danushka Gunathilaka alleged brawl and players contract negotiation earned accolades! Under his supervision, the payments process was made to regularize the payment procedures. His committee also spoken with the banks to make it more streamlined and fool proof.
“Even though he was there as just an Interim arrangement, he gave a stern warning to all those players, who become troublemakers for Sri Lanka cricket time and again. Then, he handled players contract dispute with utmost sensitivity and made sure that there won’t be a problem like the board had with the coach Chandika Hathurusingha” the top SLC official added.
There is an old adage, saying when life gives you a chance, give your best shot! There is a so called flag bearer in Sri Lanka cricket, who was once regarded as one of world cricket shrewdest mind. When he was given a chance to change Sri Lanka cricket as a political gift, he ruined it instead and in the process himself also become a laughing stock, as he has lost his Image and has been thoroughly exposed! On the other hand, Professor Arjuna emerged a winner due to his genuineness!
