"Chronicles of a Cricket Luminary: Premasara Epasinghe's Biography Unveiled at Nalanda College"
In a poignant ceremony at the Nalanda College Malalasekara Hall, the Old Nalandian Past Cricketers Association paid homage to the distinguished veteran journalist and revered radio commentator, Premasara Epasinghe. The occasion was not only a tribute to Epasinghe's illustrious career but also marked the unveiling of his biography, aptly titled "Golden Voice of Cricket in Sri Lanka," skillfully penned by veteran journalist Athula Ranjith Wedamesthrige.
The event, graced by Education Minister Susil Premajayantha as the chief guest, was a celebration of Epasinghe's multifaceted journey. Lasantha Amarasinghe, Chairman of Chance Sports, presented a significant cash award of Rs.100,000 to honor Epasinghe's contributions. The keynote address was delivered by the venerable compiler and Chairman of Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, Saman Athaudahetti. Athaudahetti eloquently underscored Epasinghe's diverse roles as a cricketer, teacher, banking officer, coach, administrator, and cricket commentator, portraying him as a truly multifaceted individual.
Sharing nostalgic recollections of his school cricketing days alongside Epasinghe, former Olympian boxer and retired DIG Sumith Liyanage reminisced about the camaraderie forged on the cricket field. Minister Premajayantha lauded Epasinghe's tireless efforts to bring cricket to villages, especially during an era devoid of television coverage. The minister also acknowledged Epasinghe's invaluable support during his tenure, highlighting the journalist's proficiency in both Sinhala and English.
Epasinghe, in tracing his journey from Visakha Vidyalaya to Nalanda College and then the university, reflected on his remarkable career spanning roles as a teacher, coach, cricket administrator, and commentator. Fondly reminiscing about his journalism days at Lake House, he shared, "I started as a sports journalist and regularly wrote sports stories."
The biography launch not only encapsulates the life and contributions of Premasara Epasinghe but also serves as a testament to the profound impact he has had on Sri Lanka's cricketing landscape and beyond. It is a tribute to a true luminary whose golden voice resonates far beyond the cricket field, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's sporting and journalistic heritage."
"A Celebration of Cricket and Legacy: Felicitating Premasara Epasinghe at Nalanda"
In a momentous occasion orchestrated by the Nalanda Past Cricketers' Association, Nihal Pathirage, the association's President, conveyed their eager anticipation to honor the esteemed Premasara Epasinghe. As a former Nalanda cricketer, Epasinghe's contributions were hailed as not just significant but as an integral part of the cricketing legacy. Aravinda de Silva, the World Cup hero of the final in 1996, added to the prestige of the event with his presence, embodying the shared history and camaraderie of Nalandians.
Epasinghe's pivotal role in providing live commentary during the historic 1996 World Cup final, an event commemorated through a documentary film directed by former Nalandian Ajith Galappaththi, underscored the profound impact he has had on cricketing narratives. Athula Ranjith Wedamesthrige, a former Lake House freelance journalist and the author of Epasinghe's biography, expressed the significance of being a Nalandian in writing and presenting this book to such an esteemed figure.
The event was graced by luminaries such as Thilanga Sumathipala, former SLC chairman; Gihan Weerasinghe, Secretary of the Past Cricketers Association; former Nalanda Principals Hemantha Premathilake and Thilak Watthuhewa; and Present Nalanda Principal Iran Champika Silva. Distinguished old boys and current students from Nalanda added to the vibrant atmosphere, making the occasion not just a felicitation but a celebration of the enduring legacy that Epasinghe has woven into the fabric of Nalanda's cricketing heritage."
"In concluding this momentous occasion, the celebration of Premasara Epasinghe at Nalanda stands as a testament to the enduring legacy he has etched in the annals of cricketing history. As a former Nalanda cricketer, his journey has not only contributed to the sport but has become an integral part of the school's cricketing heritage.
The presence of Aravinda de Silva, the iconic World Cup hero, added a touch of nostalgia and camaraderie to the event, reflecting the shared history and bonds among Nalandians. The felicitation, marked by live commentary during the historic 1996 World Cup final, showcased the pivotal role Epasinghe played in shaping cricketing narratives, an impact immortalized through a documentary film directed by a fellow Nalandian, Ajith Galappaththi.
Athula Ranjith Wedamesthrige, a former Lake House freelance journalist and the author of Epasinghe's biography, emphasized the unique privilege of being a Nalandian entrusted with capturing the essence of such a distinguished figure. The esteemed gathering, including luminaries like Thilanga Sumathipala, Gihan Weerasinghe, and former and present Nalanda Principals, underscored the significance of this event in the school's rich cricketing tradition.
With distinguished old boys and current students coming together, this celebration transcended mere felicitation; it became a vibrant tribute to the enduring spirit of cricket and the indelible mark left by Premasara Epasinghe on the proud legacy of Nalanda."