Lest we forget

CHEERING: With Sri Lanka celebrating its 10th anniversary today after winning the World Cup cricket final beating Australia in Lahore, Pakistan, on March 17, 1996, one must also toast the three cheer leaders - Percy Abeysekera, Lionel "The legend" Navaragodagedera and Saddatissa who were part of that history making event.

The threesome proudly carried the Lion Flag and did several rounds, around the ground cheering and encouraging the cricketers.

They were pelted with oranges, apples and what not, but they stood their ground and shouted themselves hoarse till that memorable victory was achieved on that cool night in Lahore. The threesome have always been an integral part of Sri Lanka Cricket and will be in action again during the Pakistan series beginning today.

With Sri Lanka Cricket struggling at the moment their cheering joined by the large crowd of spectators would certainly go to inspire and encourage the Sri Lankan cricketers.

Percy, Lionel and Tissa must be given all the encouragement in their endeavour to cheer the cricketers to give of their best.

Can one forget the poignant moment when Lionel kissed mother earth in Lahora in thanksgiving.

ER