DIGANA, Kandy: (ePRESS) – New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell emerged as the winner of the inaugural Black Caps Invitational Golf Tournament, held at the picturesque Victoria Golf Resort in Digana last Monday.
In a closely contested 9-hole Stableford format, Bracewell secured victory with an impressive 20 points, narrowly edging out Tim Robinson, who finished as runner-up with 18 points.
The event, a first of its kind for a traveling cricket team, saw participants from the New Zealand limited-overs cricket squad battling it out on the greens alongside Sri Lankan cricket representatives and members of the diplomatic community.
Bracewell’s strong performance saw him top the leaderboard, while Robinson followed closely behind. The rest of the field featured some tight competition, with Druvi Sirisena finishing third with 17 points, and a cluster of players, including Sheldon Scott, Alan Bond, and Zak Foulks, all tying with 15 points.
Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner, both seasoned Black Caps, contributed strong performances, finishing with 15 points each. The tournament also showcased several other players from both teams, including Will Young (14 points) and Sidath Wettimuny (13 points).
The event, organized by New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Maldives, His Excellency David Pine, was a celebration of sportsmanship. Following the tournament, participants and guests gathered for a fellowship BBQ lunch, where players from the Black Caps, Sri Lankan cricket officials, hospitality industry leaders, and ambassadors mingled in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
“We’re delighted to host such an event, combining sport and fellowship in such a beautiful setting,” said His Excellency Pine. “It’s a unique opportunity to bring together the Black Caps, Sri Lanka’s cricketing community, and the diplomatic sector for a memorable occasion.”
The tournament was made possible thanks to the generous support of key sponsors, including Sri Lankan Cricket, SriLankan Airlines, Aitken Spence Travels, and Taprobaneseafoods. Their backing helped make the event a success, drawing attention to the thriving relationship between Sri Lanka and New Zealand.
This marked a significant moment for international cricket, as a traveling team like the Black Caps took part in such a unique golfing event. It highlighted the growing bond between cricket, leisure, and diplomacy, with future events anticipated to follow suit in the coming years.
Final Standings: Michael Bracewell (20 points), Tim Robinson (18 points), Druvi Sirisena (17 points), Sheldon Scott (15 points), Alan Bond (15 points), Zak Foulks (15 points), Glenn Phillips (15 points), Mitchell Santner (15 points), Will Young (14 points), Sidath Wettimuny (13 points).
Other notable participants included Miyon Lee, Brett Lee, Josh Clarkson, Adam Milne, and Gary Stead, with points ranging from 10 to 3.
