PANADURA: (ePRESS) – Deneth Priyanga Peiris, the cricket captain of St John’s College Panadura, has achieved a remarkable milestone in the 2023-2024 Under-19 Two-day School Cricket Tournament season. He scored a whopping 1,000 runs, making him the second batsman in the school’s history to cross this mark.
At just 18 years old, Peiris, a right-handed batter, showcased his talent by scoring 1,027 runs with an impressive average of 48.9. Throughout the season, he played 13 matches and batted in 21 innings, achieving three centuries and eight half-centuries. His highest score of 127 came against PDS Kularathana Vidyalaya.
Peiris displayed his skill and leadership by scoring centuries against Lyceum International School Wattala and Galahitiyawa Central College. His unbeaten half-century innings against Kalutara Vidyalaya and Sri Devananda College Ambalangoda demonstrated his consistency and determination as the captain of the Under-19 team.
His outstanding performance led St John’s College Panadura to victory in crucial matches, including the quarter-final against Lyceum International School Wattala and the first-round match against PDS Kularathana College Ambalangoda.
Peiris expressed his joy at achieving the 1,000-run milestone, attributing his success to the support of his coaches, parents, and teammates. He had set his sights on this target from the beginning of the season and is thrilled to have accomplished it.
This achievement adds to Peiris’ already impressive cricketing journey. He has been playing Under-19 cricket since the age of 15 and last year scored over 800 runs despite missing three matches due to various reasons.
Looking ahead, Peiris is preparing for the annual Big Match against Royal College Panadura scheduled for April 26, where he aims to continue his stellar performance on the cricket field.
Udara Maddumage serves as the Head Coach of St John’s College Panadura, with Namal Lenora as the Master in Charge (MIC). The College Principal, Mrs. YP Perera, congratulates Peiris on his remarkable achievement and wishes him continued success in his cricketing endeavors.
