The convener of Sri Lanka women’s cricket Apsari Tillekaratne made a historic visit to Jaffna last week and has realized the potential and the interest shown in the Northern Province.
“Our main aim is to develop women’s cricket everywhere in Sri Lanka and ensure there are equal opportunities for all and already we have decided to pave the way to play some big matches among the girls schools,” said Apsari.
“I have a big responsibility to develop this sport among the girls and I think the best way to start this is from the school level.”
Apsari had also noted the absence of basic facilities in Jaffna and promised to look into the shortcomings to make the project meaningful while at the same time having to assure the players will be in safe hands to develop their skills and talents.
“Because of their culture some parents are not encouraging towards their children and this is another challenge for us to overcome,” said Apsari who is the wife of former Sri Lanka captain Hashan Tillekaratne.
She also visited schools in Mannar, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Killinochchi and said Sri Lanka Cricket was in the process of drawing up a project to bring the northern province on par with other regions in the country promoting women’s cricket.
“The Sports Minister (Namal Rajapaksa) has a good vision to develop sport and this will help us in our endeavours to push ahead to the limits or even beyond,” said Apsari.
“Overall we are preparing for the Under-19 Women’s World Cup in 2022 and this is when the schools will have to play a part to help us unearth new talent for the future. We have already identified some good talent in the northern province and hope to build on it.”