St. Joseph Vaz College’s Nipun Dananjaya Perera who received the Best Fielder award praised the Observer-Mobitel School Cricketer Award organizers for appreciating the up and coming cricketers from grass root level. “This is an encouragement for all budding young cricketers to come up with their best to achieve higher levels in cricket to win these awards,” Nipuna said.
“I won this award with the help of my coach Tharanga Liyana Pathirana who really guided me to achieve great heights in cricket,” he said.
In addition Nipun said that his parents, two sisters and relatives were behind him whenever possible to support him during his cricketing career.
“It is my duty to thank all who supported me,” said Nipun.
St. Joseph Vaz College Principal Rev. Fr. Priyanjeeva Guneratne paid a glowing tribute to Nipun for bringing honor to his school through cricket.
Nipun started his cricketing career at Damissara MMV, Nattandiya at the age of nine years with present coach Pathirana.
From the beginning, Nipun showed that he is an active player with talent. When the coach was transferred to St. Joseph Vaz College he ensured that Nipun too came with him because he knew this boy had the talent to reach greater heights.
From the day of his first appearance for his new school in the Under 13 age group, he cracked an unbeaten double century to surprise all onlookers who were present to witness the match.
Nipun has played nine out of 14 matches last season and scored 696 runs. As a right arm leg break bowler, he captured 37 wickets. This courageous youngster is one cricketer who is prepared to face any challenges and play according to the situation that prevails on the field.
Nipun’s high class performance in school cricket has helped him enter the Sri Lanka Premier League tournament representing the Sinhalese Sports Club.
All his success has also paved the way for him to be in the Under 19 national squad and he has made eight tours with the national team. He captained the Under 19 national team last year and this year too he is tipped to take over the leadership. The Sri Lanka Under 19 national squad is undergoing practices in Colombo in preparation for the Bangladesh tour.