Chilaw Marians, a team without too many big name players will be aiming to upset the big teams as they look to lay claim for the Premier League title.
Bit of History
From humble beginnings way back in 1976, the coastal club grew in the late 90’s and early 2000’s to reach the peak of its powers. The club managed its first limited overs title in 2009 and since then has gone on to be the stepping stone for players of the likes of Shaminda Eranga and Dilruwan Perera.
Chilaw did not have a season (2015/16) to remember last time around finishing 5th in the round robin stage and eventually ending 4th in the Plate segment.
Key Players
Captain Mahela Udawatte will be a pivotal part of the Chilaw batting this season. Udawatta impressed last season finishing third in the run scoring charts with 894 runs in 9 matches for Moors SC. Udawatta made the switch to Chilaw and along with it has been given the captain’s responsibilities.
Having made the switch from Colts to Chilaw, Shehan Jayasuriya brings in years of first class cricket experience and even national cricket experience. Jayasuriya has more than 3000 first class runs to his name along with 97 first class wickets. His national experience will surely aid him in his quest to take Chilaw towards glory.
Photo Album: Chilaw Marians Cricket Club | Full Squad 2016/17
Sachithra Serasinghe, is another strong all-rounder in the Chilaw team. He has more than 5000 first class runs and 197 first class wickets to his name. He has played for Sri Lanka A and the Sri Lanka development squad and will be a man looked up to this season.
Left arm spinner, Malinda Pushpakumara will be an important part of the Chilaw bowling unit this time around. With more than 500 first class wickets he mainly functions as a bowling all-rounder and is a useful batsman.
Thikshila de Silva, a rising star at the coastal team, has been impressive with the ball in hand and explosive with bat in hand. He has more than 650 runs in his short career with 17 wickets to go along with it.
New boys
Asitha Fernando will be a new man to watch out for as he makes his first class debut for Chilaw Marians this term. He has impressed with 16 wickets in 7 first class matches so far and will be seeking to impress at the club.
Rukshan Fernando and Rajika Dilshan will be two other new lads to watch out for as they put on the Chilaw Marians jersey this season.
Coaching Staff
Sarath Jayawardene will be the man heading the Chilaw coaching brigade along with Asad Ajireen as the trainer while M.C. Mohideen will be the manager.
