Govt. Spends Rs. 130 B Annually  Programme to Locally Manufacture 50% of Requirement  Process Would Reduce Import Cost to Rs

www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk MONDAY , SEPTEMBER 14 , 2020

For veri ed information on the  Quarantine Unit COVID 19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN  Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 29,024,097 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 3,204 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service  Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 6,684,332 198,189 COVID 19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 925,641 INDIA 4,788,593 78,931 BRAZIL 4,315,858 131,274 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 1,062,811 18,578 12 2,996  Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600  Fax 0112333066, 0114354882  Hotline 0113456200-4  Email ptf@pmo ce.gov.lk 20,891,515 PERU 722,832 30,593 THE ABOVE STATISTICS196 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 9.10 P.M. ON 13 SEPTEMBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

PHARMACEUTICAL IMPORTS Govt. spends Rs. 130 b annually  Programme to locally manufacture 50% of requirement  Process would reduce import cost to Rs. 60 b annually

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA When contacted, MSD Director country’s requirement of Government’s target. Dr. H.M.K. Wickramanayake pharmaceuticals locally within the The objective is to provide high- Sri Lanka at present produces approximately 150 out of said that around Rs. 130 billion is next three years. quality medicine to the public around 1,100 types of pharmaceuticals imported to the being spent annually to import the For locally manufacturing, the and the foreign market as well country, according to the Medical Supplies Division (MSD) necessary pharmaceutical products ingredients would have to be at affordable prices. All products of the Ministry of Health. to the country and once the local imported, he said, adding that are made in accordance with the manufacturing starts, the cost would the MSD together with the State recommendations and standards As learnt by The Morning, the now, the country produces around be reduced by around Rs. 60 billion. Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing of the World Health Organisation local manufacturing process had 150 types of pharmaceuticals Accordingly, the Government Corporation (SPMC) is (WHO). been launched in 2015 and as of locally. plans to produce 50% of the currently working to reach the Contd. on page 2 FAILURE TO FULFIL DEMANDS FIGHTING BACK GMOA threatens TU action HUNGER STRIKE BY BOOSSA The Government Medical made by the Association, be launched against a host Some prisoners Officers’ Association including the regularising of issues including the (GMOA) has issued a Trade of the Sri Lanka Medical undue delay in getting final Union (TU) notice for all- Council (SLMC). approval in Parliament for continue strike island TU action, which In a letter written to the minimum standard of BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA is to be initiated during Minister of Health Pavithra medical education and not the week, starting from Wanniarachchi on Friday conducting elections for Some 20 persons, including notorious 21 September, to protest (11), GMOA Secretary Dr. four vacant posts of the “Wele Suda”, are still continuing their against the undue delay in Senal Fernando stressed SLMC. hunger strike at the Boossa Camp, while fulfilling several demands that the TU action would Contd. on page 2 some had given up the strike. Commissioner General of Prisons SRI LANKAN HOUSEMAID’S DEATH IN KUWAIT Thushara Upuldeniya said that around 25 prisoners had stopped the hunger strike. “Twenty-five prisoners have begun eating SLBFE to carry out separate probe meals once again. However, there are some who are still continuing the strike.” BY SARAH HANNAN worker in Kuwait. allegations get confirmed, we He said their demands would not be “We are conducting a will file legal action against entertained. The Sri Lanka Bureau separate investigation with the sponsor for recompense,” “They are asking for demands such of Foreign Employment the assistance of the embassy, SLBFE General Manager as mobile phone access. We cannot (SLBFE) is to conduct a as the full report from the W.M.V. Wanasekara told The In an attempt to control the spread of dengue fever in Colombo, health workers yesterday (13) compromise the security of the prison, so separate investigation over the post-mortem is pending. Morning. fumigated the Slave Island Police Quarters with insecticide to curb mosquito breeding we will not even consider their demands.” death of a Sri Lankan migrant Furthermore, should the Contd. on page 2 PHOTO LALITH PERERA Contd. on page 2 USING CANNABIS UNP LEADERSHIP Vehicle number SRI LANKANS REPATRIATED Working Committee meets today Thirty arrested plates to change at party Over 400 from  Deputy Leader likely to be  Deputy Leader to succeed The Government the UAE and Qatar appointed at today’s meet as new leader next year A total of 30 individuals have been arrested is to introduce after the Police had raided a party held in the a new RF (radio More groups of Sri Lankans who were The United National has seen several party seniors coming Kochchikade area of Negombo. frequency) code stranded in foreign countries, owing to the Party (UNP) Working forward. The Police stated that the party-goers had for vehicle number outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, have Committee is to meet today However, UNP Deputy General Secretary been arrested over the use of cannabis. plates which would returned to the island. (14) to discuss and reach a Ruwan Wijewardene is a frontrunner to Reportedly, the party had been organised enable authorities It has been reported that 405 Sri Lankans final decision on the party’s the post of leadership with the party’s through Facebook. faster access to were repatriated from the United Arab new Leader. youth front requesting Wijewardene to be vehicle information. Emirates (UAE) and Qatar. UNP Deputy General The UNP’s appointed as the UNP Leader. State Minister of Vehicle Regulation, Bus Accordingly, 341 persons from the UAE Secretary Ruwan leadership race Contd. on page 2 Dedicated to Transport Services, Carriages, and Automotive and 64 persons from Qatar arrived at the Wijewardene Industries Dilum Amungama, said the new Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) abolishing drugs: regulations were to be gazetted. early last morning (13). 20TH AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION SRI LANKA CALLS FOR Contd. on page 2 All of the returnees have been subjected to Shavendra PCR tests upon arrival at the airport. Collective prosperity The Sri Lanka Army has dedicated itself to OBTAINING DRIVING LICENCE PM appoints eradicating the prevailing drug problem, Sri in Southeast Asia Lanka Army Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva said in a recent media statement. Blood test not a criterion committee Sri Lanka has called for collective “At a time when the Sri Lanka Main criteria would be eye test licence. Nevertheless, blood efforts by the ASEAN (Association (Armed) Forces have been The medical fitness tests will be included only Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa has of Southeast Asian Nations) Regional praised for its management certification to obtain a as a service,” State Minister taken steps to appoint a committee comprising Forum (ARF) member states to address of the Covid-19 crisis, it’s driving licence will be Amunugama reiterated. parliamentary representatives to study the 20th traditional and non-traditional security important to know that primarily based on an eye test, The State Ministry is also Amendment to the Constitution. threats. eradicating drugs does State Minister of Transport discussing the possibility of The committee comprising cabinet ministers, State Minister for Regional not present a big Services Management Dilum looking into issuing two types state ministers, and Members of Parliament Co-operation Tharaka Balasuriya noted challenge for us,” Amunugama informed. of driving licences; one for (MPs) will be chaired by Minister of Education this, representing Sri Lanka at the 27th he commented. “Going forward, obtaining a commercial purposes and the Prof. G.L. Peiris. ARF held virtually on Saturday (12). Contd. on Lt. Gen. blood test to determine one’s blood pressure level will not be other for personal use. Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 page 2 Shavendra Silva blood sugar level or one’s a criterion to obtain a driving Contd. on page 2 SRI LANKA AUDIT SERVICE ASSOCIATION CEA LAUNCHES E WASTE COLLECTION WEEK CEA collaborates Discussion on 20A with President The Sri Lanka Audit Service the 19th Amendment, the Audit the administrative and financial powers with Postal Dept. Association (SLASA) is to meet Service Commission was one of of the auditors so that the executive To mark World Post Day on 10 e-waste, such as used or obsolete President Gotabaya Rajapaksa this week the good features introduced to interference was not affected by the October, the Department of Posts mobile phones, computers, to discuss the possible negative impact on the country. Nevertheless, up until audit service. has collaborated with the Central televisions, radios, and stereos, the country’s independent audit services now, the Commission was not given Prior to 2015, the auditors were also Environmental Authority (CEA) at selected post offices. with the implementation of the 20th full authority, and as a result many governed under the Public Service to launch a corporate social “We will have designated post Amendment to the Constitution. described the Commission as a white Commission and financial control was responsibility (CSR) project to offices named e-waste drop- Speaking to The Morning, SLASA elephant,” he stressed. vested with the Ministry of Finance. collect electronic waste (e-waste) off points, and would also seek Secretary R.M.P.A. Janaka said the Janaka also noted that the main If the Commission was repealed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa from 5-10 October. assistance from the divisional (Audit Service) Commission was objective of the Commission was to the 20th Amendment, the audit service The initiative will allow the secretariat offices. established in 2015 by the 19th powers for the past five years. establish an independent audit service would go back to where it was before public to drop off their domestic Contd. on page 2 Amendment to the Constitution but “Although there were a number in the country. He further stated that the 2015, he explained. the Commission was not fully given of bad things that happened through Commission was established to control Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Monday, September 14, 2020 20TH AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION Parliament becomes powerless: Dr. Harini Amarasuriya Speaking to The Morning, National People's Power (NPP) MP Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said that a group without any political policy is playing with the main law of the land for their power struggle. “The 20th Amendment is a betrayal of the mandate given to this Government. That is to say it is working for the great mandate obtained. In a democratic structure, there are institutions that exercise the mandate. It is through these institutions that the sovereignty of the people is protected. that the present Government is within the Government shows a the real situation of these people are people in the Cabinet who This 20th Amendment makes not acting with confidence in the culture of distrust of the Prime is shown by this constitutional are proposing this amendment, Parliament an institution without people who appointed it, which Minister. It shows that others have amendment. This is not an who opposed the constitution any power. The structure of has led to a loss of trust of not only no power in the state structure amendment for the betterment amendment in 1978 and went accountability to Parliament NPP MP Dr. Harini Amarasuriya the Opposition parties, but also except for a small gang around one of the country or the people, but to jail for it. We will take all is completely weakened,” Dr. of the people who gave them the person. In fact, the Government is rather a seizure of power by a necessary steps in Parliament Amarasuriya noted. out that the Prime Minister also mandate. always appears to be a government certain gang. against this constitutional Further, Dr. Amarasuriya pointed has no say over this, indicating She added: “Also, the Cabinet that listens to the people. But “It is unfortunate that there amendment.”

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policies adopted to address the and cyber attacks on critical Russia, and Vietnam. “The present system where the scheduled to be handed over to the Govt. spends... public health crisis of the Covid- infrastructure. The ARF was established under number plates display the province Premier on 15 September. At a meeting held to discuss the 19 pandemic, he stressed that Sri Lanka further noted that the the aegis of the ASEAN in 1993 which the vehicle belongs to will future plans of the State Ministry concerted efforts by all members ARF, as a regional mechanism, has and Sri Lanka has been a member be done away with and the RF of Pharmaceutical Production, of the ARF are vital to face the successfully dealt in countering of the ARF since 2007. It is an code will be added. Authorities can Working Supply, and Regulation recently, uphill task of economic recovery terrorism and transnational crimes important platform to provide a simply scan the code and obtain Committee... President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and rebuilding the livelihood and underscored that in tackling constructive security dialogue all the necessary information, such stressed the importance of of its citizens in the aftermath these problems, remedies by a and consultation on political as which province it belongs to, A senior UNP source told The achieving the Government’s of the global pandemic. In that single country is not sufficient, and security issues of common ownership, etc.,” he said. Morning that the party was likely target of reaching 50% of local context, achieving prosperity and called for a collective effort interest and concern in the – Skandha Gunasekara to appoint a new Deputy Leader manufacturing within three years. and promoting a people-centric to fight against these transnational Southeast Asian region. It provides who would succeed as the new The President has also stressed economic development plan is key, crimes. a platform for members to Leader by next year. that it is high time to turn the State Minister Balasuriya noted. The 27th ARF adopted the significantly contribute to efforts Blood test... tables and added that large-scale He further reiterated that Hanoi Plan of Action II (HPOA), towards confidence-building and Anyone with a sound health local investors are willing to difficult times characterised by which is to be implemented preventive diplomacy in the Asia- check who qualifies the medical SLBFE to... contribute to this effort. traditional and non-traditional through the years 2020-2025. Pacific region. fitness certification will be able The SLBFE is expecting a report Sri Lanka is currently the largest security issues paint a picture that HPOA I was the first in a series to obtain the commercial driving over the suspected death caused by importer of drugs in the Asian these issues are no longer confined of plans of action building up to licence, whereas the licence issued alleged torture by evening today region. to the geographical boundaries of the realisation of the goals of the Some for personal use can be obtained (14). a respective country. In regard to ASEAN Vision 2020, which was by persons who will only be In an unfortunate turn of events this, Sri Lanka rests importance adopted in 1997 which covered prisoners... driving their own vehicle. last week, a death of a Sri Lankan Collective... on regional stability and recovery, the period from 1999 to 2004. Infamous criminals like Wele – Sarah Hannan migrant worker was reported from In his statement, State Minister practical security co-operation, HPOA II will serve as a sequel, Suda, Kanjipani Imran, and Kuwait. Balasuriya commended the role maritime and cyber security, which is intended to build closer Dematagoda Chaminda are among Following the incident, the of the ARF as a proponent of counter-terrorism and transnational regional integration, consolidating the 20 prisoners still on the hunger Dedicated to... Kuwaiti law enforcement peace, stability, and prosperity crimes, and non-proliferation and and strengthening the economic strike. Presently, steps are being taken authorities commenced an in the region, the Ministry of disarmament. In this context, he fundamentals of the member to round up drug lords and other investigation over the migrant Foreign Affairs said in a statement. added that the future direction of countries. criminals into camps and the Sri worker’s sponsor and his wife. Sri Lanka, highlighting the the ARF must strive to achieve The 27th ARF was represented Vehicle Lanka Army and Police are certain Kuwait local media reported that values of constructive dialogue, these objectives through an all- by Malaysia, Canada, Indonesia, number... that the criminal underworld of Sri the Sri Lankan migrant worker consultation, and co-operation by inclusive approach. the US, the Philippines, Japan, Lanka will not sustain under their was a female, 46 years of age, and all member states in maintaining Sri Lanka further underscored Cambodia, South Korea, “They will come into effect inspection, he further stated. had been admitted to the Amiri peace and security in the region, the misuse of information and Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, as soon as the new system is Hospital by her sponsor in Kuwait called for collective efforts by the communication technology (ICT) Australia, Laos, New Zealand, gazetted.” and was in a critical state. ARF member states to address as a major hindrance to global Thailand, China, the EU, He explained that the RF code Discussion... The medical examination had traditional and non-traditional security and called for collective Bangladesh, Timor-Leste, would replace the current method To maintain the independence stated that the victim had traces of security threats. efforts to co-operate and mitigate Myanmar, Pakistan, Mongolia, of provincial identification on of the Commission, it is important burn marks, cuts, and wounds on While taking note of Sri Lanka’s threats such as cybercrime Papua New Guinea, India, Korea, number plates. to separate the auditors from the her body. executive, he noted. Due to her critical state, However, the SLASA reiterated the hospital authorities had that they did not have any immediately transferred her to the intention to go into battle with the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where Government and they believed that after a few hours she succumbed by discussing the matter with the to her injuries and died at the Cartoon of the day President, the SLASA could find a hospital. solution. The deceased’s corpse has – Maheesha Mudugamuwa been referred to the Forensics Department of the hospital for a post-mortem examination and for CEA... the issuance of a full report on the We will only be accepting injuries that were visible on the domestic e-waste and not deceased’s body. industrial-grade machinery or During the initial investigations items,” Postmaster General the sponsor had denied any Ranjith Ariyaratne explained. involvement of subjecting their Sri Lanka is yet to employ a deceased housemaid to torture or proper mechanism to collect and violence. dispose e-waste. Speaking to The Morning, CEA Chairman Siripala Amarasinghe GMOA... said: “E-waste is a category that Other issues included ending is fast growing and since there is the continuing presence of no mechanism in place to recycle appointments of former Minister them regularly, we are looking of Health Dr. Rajitha Senaratne into methods of recycling such within the SLMC, the continuation disposed items that get collected.” of irregular inquiries with The collected e-waste would be malicious intentions against recycled and any component that GMOA officials which were would not be recycled would be initiated during the period of re-exported, the CEA stated. Dr. Senaratne, and the delay – Sarah Hannan in approval for the Grade MO (medical officer) retirement age extension amended by the cabinet paper. PM appoints... It is further requested that the Cabinet Ministers Udaya Ministry takes prompt action Gammanpila, Ali Sabry, Nimal against the above-mentioned Siripala de Silva, and Wimal demands prior to the proposed TU Weerawansa and State Ministers action. Susil Premajayantha and S. The GMOA has also stressed Viyalendiran have been appointed that it believes that an early to the committee. appointment to discuss these In addition, parliamentarians urgent matters will be essential Dilan Perera and Premanath C. to prevent an unnecessary service Dolawatte have been added as breakdown within the entire health members of the committee. sector of the country. The report of the committee is – Maheesha Mudugamuwa the morning Monday , September 14, 2020 3 business Dialog launches LANKAQR Colombo Stock Exchange national campaign from Matale Dialog Axiata PLC, in partnership with Dialog gains 19% since reopening Finance PLC and Lanka Clear, on Sunday (12) Since reopening the market on 11 launched “LANKAQR”– May 2020, following an extended the national quick response closure as a result of the Covid-19 (QR) code standard for pandemic, the benchmark All Share local currency payments Price Index (ASPI) of the Colombo introduced by the Central Stock Exchange (CSE) has recorded Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) an 18.97% increase up to 11 to enable a cashless Sri Lanka. Dialog said it aims September and stands at 5,438.91 From left: Dialog Axiata PLC Senior Manager – Mobile Financial points. to enable over 50,000 of Services Padmanath Muthukumarana, CBSL Payments and its partner merchants with Settlements Department Director D. Kumaratunge, and Dialog The Standard and Poors Sri Lanka 20 access to the LANKAQR Axiata PLC Chief Digital Services Officer and Dialog Finance (S&P SL20) Index, which features the CSE’s platform for digital Chairperson Renuka Fernando 20 largest and most liquid stocks has also financial transactions by the payment app users to CBSL, was established gained 21.15% since the market reopening, end of the year. purchase goods and under the aegis of the closing at 2,359.24 points on 11 September. The LANKAQR services through Dialog Payments and Settlements “The Colombo Stock Market has recorded islandwide campaign was merchants accepting Act No. 28 of 2005, a noteworthy turnaround in recent months, launched at the “Mataleta LANKAQR payments at no becoming Sri Lanka’s first driven by a progress of the indices and LANKAQR” event held transaction cost with instant mobile money service that improved investor interest. The ASPI and on Sunday at the CBSL payment notifications. permitted sending and the S&P SL20 Index have made consistent Matale regional office, Furthermore, over 50,000 receiving money. Fuelling gains tracking back points losses with the Graphical illustration of market performance since its reopening attended by all major banks Dialog merchant outlets the “2020 – Year of Digital indices now at higher levels than before and mobile money and will enjoy zero set-up cost, Transactions” initiative 11 March 2020, the day Covid-19 was from historically attractive valuations at the approximately 75% of the total market fintech companies, with lower transaction cost, and vision by the CBSL, declared a pandemic by the World Health time, with the market reaching 4,300 levels. turnover since the market reopened for CBSL Governor Prof. W.D. zero maintenance cost, and it also has the distinction Organisation,” the CSE said. The low-price points demonstrated by a trading on the 11th, which is significantly Lakshman appearing as instant notification receipts. of being the world’s first The overall value of the stock market, majority of the stocks were the ideal entry higher when compared to approximately the Chief Guest. Dialog Dialog’s eZ Cash mobile inter-operable mobile which is represented by the market phase for new investors and an opportune 36% recorded pre closure. The year 2020 will also be providing 3GB wallet customers can now money service and was capitalisation, has also improved, adding Rs. moment for them to experience the market has also seen a greater interest among mobile data free-of-charge make payments through honoured with the Global 235.5 billion since 11 May. and grow their wealth. Local retail investors younger investors in the retail segment, to Dialog customers within LANKAQR using their Award for “Best Mobile The year-to-date (YTD) daily average were quick to identify this opportunity with 47% of the total accounts opened a 5 km radius in the town of eZ Cash mobile wallet, Money Service” at the turnover, which is an indication of investor and accumulate stocks at low prices which being attributed to the 18-30 age group. Matale to encourage them and Genie payment app Mobile World Congress in participation in the market, currently resulted in high participation levels in the This marks an interesting development to register for eZ Cash via customers will soon be able 2015. Genie, which is fully stands at Rs. 1.35 billion – the highest market,” the CSE added. considering the fact that a large portion #111# and download the to pay through LANKAQR certified by the globally figure recorded since 2014. Overall market A significant increase in account openings of retail stock market investors have app to experience paying subsequently using any recognised Payment activity in terms of the average number of was noted since the market reopening with traditionally been above 50 years of age. via LANKAQR at the bank account, or Visa and Card Industry (PCI) trades carried out during a trading day has 5,801 new investors entering the market On the foreign investment front, 2020 has enabled outlets. MasterCard debit and credit Data Security Standards also increased significantly by 73% when which is 98% higher than the number of recorded a net foreign outflow of Rs. 34.9 The adoption of this cards at any LANKAQR body, brings a secure and compared to the average figure recorded in new investors recorded during the same time billion, largely in line with the foreign fund universal LANKAQR merchant; both online and convenient transaction 2019, and 133% higher than 2018. period (May to August) in 2019, and 56% outflow trend recorded in emerging and standard by Dialog on a offline platforms. platform to enable Sri “The post-Covid market presented a higher than 2018. frontier markets around the world. Foreign national level will enable eZ Cash, which operates Lanka’s digital payment unique opportunity for investors to benefit Local investors have contributed to purchases YTD are Rs. 45 billion. any LANKAQR-enabled under the licence from the landscape. Exports around billion dollar mark for third straight month Sri Lanka’s exports during the Table 1: Merchandise export performance 421.70 million), and rubber and Germany ($ 371.05 million), and month of August 2020 recorded a Values in $ millions rubber-based products ($ 506.75 Italy ($ 280.51 million) absorbed downfall of 19.2% to $ 947.7 million million) recorded a decrease of over 50% of exports recorded in the as compared to the value of $ 1,033.3 Jan- Jan-Aug % % 23.69%, 11.96%, 0.43%, and period. million recorded the same month of Exports of goods Aug 2020 growth Aug 2019 Aug 2020 growth 16.91%, respectively from January Being the largest single export last year, the Export Development 2019 to August 2020 compared to the destination, the US has absorbed $ Board (EDB) announced. Apparel 3,724.14 2,842.03 -23.69 498.03 438.33 -11.99 similar period of the previous year. 248.63 million worth of exports in Despite the decline in exports, Tea 914.99 805.56 -11.96 118.74 102.98 -13.27 Petroleum products, food and August 2020 recording a decline some products like coconut-based Rubber-based 609.87 506.77 -16.91 74.56 72.51 -2.75 beverages, chemical and plastic of 11.2% in comparison to $ 280 products, electricals and electronic Coconut-based 423.50 421.70 -0.43 53.15 65.31 22.88 products, and other export crops million absorbed in August 2019. components, spices and essential oils, Diamond, gems, and jewellery 197.42 98.70 -50.01 22.13 13.19 -40.40 recorded positive growth rates Also, exports to the US decreased and food and beverages recorded a Electricals and electronic components 258.42 209.19 -19.05 30.41 32.94 8.32 during the period. by 20.69% from January to August positive growth of 22.88%, 8.32%, Spices and essential oils 204.09 195.59 -4.16 33.40 39.88 19.40 The export sectors that show a 2020 in comparison to the same 19.4%, and 11.45%, respectively, Food and beverages 245.86 246.17 0.13 24.90 27.75 11.45 positive growth at disaggregate period in 2019. during the month of August 2020 as Seafood 184.46 133.16 -27.81 20.48 15.57 -23.97 levels include the exports of Exports to the UK as the largest compared to August 2019. Ornamental fish 10.14 8.45 -16.67 1.01 0.63 -37.62 industrial and surgical gloves of trading partner in the EU region EDB Chairman Prabhash Vegetables 21.03 17.26 -17.93 2.64 1.72 -34.85 rubber, coconut oil, coconut cream, recorded an increase of 8.69% to Subasinghe said:” It is remarkable to Fruits 27.06 23.18 -14.34 3.31 2.95 -10.88 liquid coconut milk, coconut flour, $ 90.76 million in August 2020 see another month of almost a billion Other export crops 20.38 56.27 176.10 3.23 6.58 103.72 coconut vinegar, coconut shell compared with August 2019. dollars of exports. However, we are Flowers and foliage 12.94 8.66 -33.08 1.29 0.94 -27.13 charcoal, mattress fibre, areca nuts, Further, exports to Italy, Canada, being watchful of the months ahead Boat building 63.75 1.91 -97.00 0.14 0.27 92.86 ginger, essential oils, made-up China, Japan, and Turkey have whilst understanding the impact of Petroleum products 220.97 227.28 2.86 24.27 21.45 -11.62 textile articles, processed food, and also shown better performance Covid-19 on our key markets of the Others 782.14 598.33 -23.50 121.61 104.68 -13.92 mitts and mittens (plastic products). during the month of August 2020. US and Europe. We also need to Earnings from the export of Exports to China grew significantly focus on export product and market Total merchandise exports 7,921.16 6,400.21 -19.20 1,033.30 947.68 -8.29 Personal Protective Equipment by 34.47% in August 2020 led by diversification which is seriously Sources: Sri Lanka Customs, Sri Lanka Export Development Board (PPE)-related products increased by earnings from the export of apparel, lacking today. Whilst appreciating 38.32% to $ 541.94 million from tea in bulk, and activated carbon. that the US and the EU are the largest by 200-fold in August 2020 in Earnings from all the major 17.63 million in August 2020. January to August 2020, compared markets, we need to now create a comparison to August 2019. categories of coconut-based with the value of $ 391.79 million Export of services significant export market in Asia, In addition, export earnings from products increased in August Export performance recorded in the corresponding The services exports estimated including China. The China free rubber and rubber finished products 2020 compared with August 2019. during the period of period of the previous year. The by EDB, which includes ICT trade agreement (FTA) will certainly have decreased by 2.71% year-on- Earnings from liquid coconut January-August 2020 strong performance was mainly due (information and communication help in this regard. Export product year (YoY) to $ 72.53 million in milk and coconut oil, categorised Total export earnings from to the increased exports of other technology)/BPM (business diversification must simultaneously August 2020, due to the bearish under coconut kernel products, January to August 2020 was $ made-up articles (HS code 630790) process management), construction, happen so that we can create more performance in exports of pneumatic increased by 89.15% and 114.38%, 6,400.21 million compared to and articles of apparel and clothing financial services, and transport and billion-dollar industries for Sri and retreated rubber tyres and respectively. Being the largest $ 7,921.16 million recorded in accessories of plastics (HS code logistics show exports of $ 2,224.02 Lanka.” tubes, gaskets, washers, seals, etc. contributor to the coconut-based a similar period of the previous 392620). million for the period from January of hard rubber. However, exports sector, coco peat, fibre pith, and year – a decline of 19.2%. This to August 2020 compared to $ Export performance of of industrial and surgical gloves of moulded products, which are shows an improved performance Sri Lanka’s trade 2,584.67 million recorded in major sectors in August rubber have increased by 36.19% categorised under the coconut fibre compared with the decline of performance in major the corresponding period of the 2020 YoY to $ 23.07 million in August products, increased by 20.71% to 21.08% recorded from January to markets previous year. However, estimated Export earnings from apparel 2020. $ 13.52 million in August 2020 July 2020. The top five export destinations service exports declined by 13.95% and textiles declined by 11.99% to Export earnings from tea in in comparison to August 2019. Major exports such as apparel during the period from January during the period from January $ 438.34 million during the month August 2020, which made up 12% Earnings from activated carbon, and textiles ($ 2,842.04 million), to August 2020 were the US ($ to August 2020 compared with of August 2020 compared with $ of merchandise exports, declined by which is categorised under coconut tea ($ 805.57 million), and coconut 1,652.17 million), the UK ($ 552.46 the corresponding period of the 498.03 million recorded in August 13.27% YoY to $ 102.97 million and shell products, increased by 7.18% and coconut-based products ($ million), India ($ 396.96 million), previous year. 2019. In parallel, a 6.15% decline the export volume was also declined in August 2020 compared to August was recorded in August 2020 in by 16.01% in August 2020 compared 2019. Table 2: Sri Lanka’s top export destinations comparison to July 2020. Despite the to August 2019. The decline was Export earnings from spices Values in $ millions decline in the sector, earnings from mainly due to lower demand for tea and essential oils have increased Country Jan.- Aug Jan.- Aug % Aug 2019 Aug 2020 exports of made-up textiles increased from Iran and Iraq. significantly by 19.4% to $ 39.88 2019 2020 Growth % million in August 2020, compared Graph 1: Monthly export performance 2019, with the value of $ 33.4 million The US 2,083.25 1,652.17 -20.69 280.00 248.63 -11.20 January-August 2020 recorded in August 2019, with a The UK 694.17 552.46 -20.41 83.50 90.76 8.69 significant increase in export of India 517.72 396.96 -23.33 64.00 57.57 -10.05 cinnamon (53.55%). Germany 440.92 371.05 -15.85 58.63 58.48 -0.26 Meanwhile, earnings from the export of electrical and electronic Italy 353.08 280.51 -20.55 44.75 47.04 5.12 components (EEC) increased by Belgium 233.91 183.27 -21.65 37.28 26.51 -28.89 8.25% to $ 32.93 million in August The Netherlands 193.21 172.47 -10.73 25.74 25.48 -1.01 2020 in comparison to August The UAE 184.70 127.88 -30.76 20.02 14.67 -26.72 2019. Also, earnings from the Canada 162.55 132.93 -18.22 20.92 23.36 11.66 export of EEC increased by 2.39% to $ 32.93 million in August 2020 China 154.88 138.73 -10.43 17.90 24.07 34.47 compared with July 2020. The Japan 214.27 127.52 -40.49 15.79 17.56 11.21 export of switches, boards, and Turkey 141.93 131.61 -7.27 20.66 22.35 8.18 panels increased by 14.10% YoY to Other markets 2,546.57 2,132.65 -16.25 344.11 291.20 -15.38 $ 4.29 million in August 2020 and Total 7,921.16 6,400.21 -19.20 1,033.30 947.68 -8.29 Sources: Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka Customs, Sri Lanka Export the export of other EEC products Development Board increased by 19.77% YoY to $ Sources: Sri Lanka Customs, Sri Lanka Export Development Board the morning 4 Monday , September 14, 2020 brunch

From left: Chatham Luxury Watches Director Sid Hirdaramani, HSBC Sri Lanka Head of Marketing and Communications Tharanga Gunasekera, CFW Founder and Managing Director Ajai Vir Singh, Shangri-La Hotel Colombo Vice President PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM and General Manager Timothy Wright, and Crocodile Lanka General Manager Chamal Fonseka

COLOMBO FASHION WEEK INTRODUCES RETAIL WEEK A month-long experiential retail and knowledge-sharing programme in association with One Galle Face and HSBC Sri Lanka

BY NAVEED ROZAIS Literary Week (28 September-4 One Galle Face is Colombo’s first right here in Sri Lanka, which ties in October) has also been curated with internationally developed and managed well with the three weeks of activities This past weekend saw the launch of Colombo Fashion Week’s (CFW) exciting book readings by celebrated Sri mixed-use development project. At planned during CFW Retail Week,” said newest programme, Retail Week, held in partnership with One Galle Face Lankan authors Ashok Ferrey, Shehan 480,000 sq. ft., the One Galle Face Mall is HSBC Sri Lanka Head of Marketing and and HSBC Sri Lanka. Karunatilaka, and Artika Aurora Bakshi. the largest international mall in Sri Lanka, Communications Tharanga Gunasekera. Each author will read an excerpt of some with over 200 tenants offering visitors an “To us, the dynamic inside a Taking place from 11 September to solutions; the role of batik in contemporary of their fan favourite works, while Ashok unparalleled shopping experience catering contemporary mall environment is 4 October, the three-week programme design by Buddhi Batiks Creative Director Ferrey will unveil an excerpt from his to their every need, in terms of dining, interesting and fascinating; we wanted focuses on creating a first-of-its-kind Darshi Keerthisena; professional etiquette upcoming new novel, An Unmarriageable entertainment, beauty, technology, and to enhance the dynamics by bringing experiential retail interaction through by renowned corporate trainer Kumar Man. shopping. interesting creative collaborations so that knowledge in a responsible way. de Silva; and responsible fashion and CFW will also launch The Edit, “One Galle Face is pleased to be a knowledge is stimulated for patrons and The programme is based on creative the journey towards circularity by CFW an exclusive store space on Level 2 partner of CFW Retail Week, an event that adds value beyond just the monetary. collaborations and brings about interesting Managing Director Ajai Vir Singh. of the One Galle Face Mall where all will inspire shopping through knowledge- One Galle Face is an iconic mall in retail interactions for guests and patrons; Environment and Conversation participating CFW designers will retail sharing which is positive and responsible,” Colombo and we could experiment CFW Retail Week focuses on weekly Week (20-27 September), curated to build their latest collections which were said Shangri-La Hotel Colombo Vice with this new concept because of their themes such as Fashion and Wellness knowledge and highlight the importance showcased on the runway in August. The President and General Manager Timothy openness to collaborate on something new. Week, Environment and Conservation of our environment, will cover key Edit will be a dedicated store space for Wright, adding: “These efforts are in line Knowledge, entertainment, and interaction Week, and Literary Week, curating sustainability and environment-related CFW designers to connect with a wider with our own endeavour in creating an is the basis of this experiential concept. I experiences. topics and will be open to all. Talks during audience and retail their collections for a eloquent shopping culture in the country.” feel that coming from a creative industry CFW Retail Week will include theme- this include the impact of plastic by BPPL limited time at One Galle Face. HSBC Premier Cards will be the like fashion, experiential retail is a logical specific knowledge and engagement-based Holdings PLC Managing Director Dr. At a press conference last week, CFW main currency of CFW Retail Week’s next step, and we are excited that One experiences each week including expert Anush Amarasinghe; marine conservation Holdings Managing Director Ajai Vir especially curated shopping experience. Galle Face is partnering with us in this talks on related topics, book readings by Oceanswell Founder and Executive Singh shared that CFW Retail Week hopes “HSBC, the title partner of CFW for the new concept. I am glad that our long-term and workshops, value-added retail Director Dr. Asha de Vos; the leopard as to imagine a new retail experience for the 13th year, which is the most sought-after partner HSBC continues our journey with experiences, movie screenings, a junior an umbrella species for landscape-level new normal and that the CFW team is fashion event in Colombo, is delighted to CFW Retail Week and will be introducing chef programme and art workshop for conservation in Sri Lanka by Wilderness very excited to be working on CFW Retail partner with its latest extension – CFW a new product,” said CFW Holdings kids, and special events like wine tastings & Wildlife Conservation Trust (WWCT) Week with the many sponsors and partners Retail Week. As our Premier customers Managing Director Ajai Vir Singh. and F&B demos. Co-Founding Trustees Anjali Watson and who have come on board to help make it a are internationally-minded and live Fashion and Wellness Week (12- Dr. Andrew Kittle; and threats faced by success. international lives, our endeavour is For more information on the CFW 19 September) will include talks on sharks and rays in the Indian Ocean by CFW Retail Week will take place to make our refreshed HSBC Premier Retail Week, visit their official website fashion grooming by Fouzul Hameed, a Blue Resources Trust Co-Founder Daniel at One Galle Face at multiple locations proposition truly a family affair and allow www.colombofashionweek.com. well-known name in menswear fashion Fernando. spread across the mall environment. them to have an international experience

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE the industry for a good decade now since she was 15, has really Leaving out a few exceptions, experienced a booming rise in her the entire global population would career since her time with FLAME probably agree that 2020 is looking for the past three years, and more and more like a lost cause speaking to her about this upcoming and all we can really look forward project, she shared that she was to is for the next three months to approached by Good Groove pass us by as smoothly as possible. Society to collaborate on it with Shaun, and considering how Talk Talk is Amidst all this however, there have been some beautiful moments, most is Cheap happens to be one of her notably in the arts, with artistes favorite songs, she was more than coming together to create. happy to come on board. One such example could be the “We got together at Shaun’s unexpected, but sure to be fantastic, home studio and worked on the collaboration between Romaine arrangement together,” she said, Willis of FLAME and Shaun Perera adding that they are extremely Cheap of Magic Box Mixup and their happy with how everything turned new cover track “Talk is Cheap”, out. She further shared: “We had PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM brought to all of us courtesy of Omesh – an extremely talented, fresh, and young producer – come Romaine Willis Romaine also shared that they it has broadened their horizons Good Groove Society. Romaine, who has been in in and really change things up.” have a gorgeous music video in in terms of what they could do store as well, with photographer via their social media to better ft. Shaun Perera Dylan Seedin bringing forth connect with their audience, and the concept, and with Good now they are experiencing the Groove Society Founder Mahesh results of having stayed in touch Dharmadasa and Bakes by Bella during the lockdown, as they feel Owner Melissa Dharmadasa more connected with those who contributing as well. listen to their music. We also spoke to Shaun, who Romaine too stated that shared that they had a great time while it has been tough, they’ve working on the new arrangement made some progress with regard to for the cover, adding that while creating original content, sharing he had a certain way of singing it some upcoming projects – original at first, with Romaine coming in, content in the works with “Middle the collaborative effort ended up Class Richkids” and some Sinhalese creating a brand new version. songs set to come out as well. She He also spoke about how the said: “I’ve been working on some pandemic has effected them as Sinhala tracks; something that musicians, how live gigs have appeals to the masses. It was a new been scarce, and how it has been experience and out my comfort zone difficult in general. However, he but it was a rewarding challenge.” noted that in making a practice We can expect Romaine’s of looking at the silver lining upcoming projects early next year, of things, he said that they’ve and of course you can catch her certainly been able to come out of performing with FLAME every this experience a bit more mindful Wednesday and Thursday evening and appreciative of the things they at the Hilton lobby, and Friday and have. He further explained how Saturday jamming at Curve. the morning 5 Monday , September 14, 2020 sports Tuscan Grand Prix Now athletes may enter Japan Messi opens his account was dramatic Foreign athletes will now be allowed to enter Japan with Barça Hamilton claimed his 90th Grand prior to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, in a move the Lionel Messi made his first appearance for Barcelona Prix victory in Tuscany, Italy Japanese Government hopes will help the preparations since his failed attempt to leave the club, playing in yesterday (13). It was after a of home stars. It is expected that the B League, their friendly match with Gimnàstic de Tarragona on remarkable race, where the race featuring players like US’ Jawad Williams, and the V Saturday (12). The 33-year-old Argentine submitted was red-flagged for a second time after Lance Stroll crashed League – Japan’s top domestic basketball and volleyball a transfer request in August, but decided to stay last week because no club was out in the Racing Point. The race restarted after a previous competitions – will be among the first to permit foreign able to afford his release clause. Messi started in the 3-1 win over third-tier red-flag period following a huge crash on the pit straight. players ahead of their season openers in October. Nastic after the club confirmed he would remain as Barça Captain. In Brief

‘Big Three’ boy meet Alexander Zverve (Germany/Seed 5) yesterday (13) at 4 p.m. New York time (Monday, 1.30 a.m. SL time) in the men’s singles final. A preview – Zverev has been winning ugly, but he’s been winning. The German enters his Srinivasan is back! first Grand Slam final against Dominic Thiem as a massive underdog, said TENNIS.com in z Indian supremo’s possible return to ICC may change international cricket once again Victoria Azarenka (left) with Naomi Osaka its US men’s singles final preview on Saturday after the latter won her second US Open (12). By Revatha S. Silva hanging by the same thread along women’s singles title on Saturday (12) “It may have taken a knee injury (Roger with me. I am hoping that this will Federer), a global pandemic (Rafael Nadal), Narayanaswamy get sorted soon,” Srinivasan has said. Naomi Osaka won US Open and a freak accident (Novak Djokovic) to Srinivasan, the An industrialist cum leading women’s singles title: deny the ‘Big Three’ their 14th consecutive administrative supremo cricket administrator, he is the Naomi Osaka of Japan beat Victoria Azarenka major title over the past fortnight at Flushing of Indian cricket, has now Managing Director of India Cement of Belarus 1/6, 6/3, and 6/3 on Saturday (12) Meadows (the US Open venue). Nevertheless, expressed his willingness Ltd., which owns the most successful becoming the first in 25 years to win a US Open on Sunday (13) in Queens, a new men’s to make a return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) team, final match after losing the opening set. The singles Grand Slam champion will be crowned International Cricket Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by last to do so was Arantxa Sanchez Vicario of for the first time since 2014,” the report Narayanaswamy Sriniwasan Council (ICC) top seat. Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Spain, who beat Germany’s Steffi Graf 1/6, noted. when the following was said in our He was heading the Tamil Nadu 7/6 (7/3), and 6/4 in the 1994 final. “According to both the oddsmakers and the This former ICC Chairman sports page lead story: “If Ganguly Cricket Association and BCCI and “Down but never out. Trailing by a set and a eye test, all signs point to a landslide victory becoming ambitious to return to is unable to contest (for ICC’s was the first to enter the newly break, No. 4 seed Osaka rallied for a thrilling for the Austrian (Thiem). Thiem is listed as the hot seat, which was vacated chairmanship)… its former Chair formed ICC Chairman position victory over former world No. 1 Azarenka to win a gargantuan (-400) favourite, and nothing by his known adversary Shashank Narayanaswamy Srinivasan would in 2014. He introduced the “Big the women’s singles title at the 2020 US Open on we’ve seen in the past week from both Manohar on 1 July, will give India a be the next choice of the BCCI (as Three” concept to the ICC where Saturday,” the tournament’s official web reported. players should make us think otherwise,” decisive edge in the race for the world its candidate) when they throw their The lead story of The Morning Sports the lion’s share of the body’s Controlling the middle of the court for much TENNIS.com predicted. governing body’s future control. hat in the ring to grab the ICC Chair, in the 12 June 2020 issue revenue was to be distributed of the first 30 minutes of the match, with the It added: “Much has been made of Zverev’s Now it could most likely either be to be vacant by Shashank Manohar at an appropriate time.” among Australia, England, and relentless brand of baseline tennis that first took less-than-stellar performances in his quarter- Board of Control for Cricket in India next month (July).” Srinivasan is hoping that the BCCI India to the utter dismay of other her to the top of the Women’s Tennis Association final and semi-final victories against Borna (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly In an interview with Outlook appeal in the Supreme Court, seeking member countries. (WTA) rankings eight years ago, it seemed for all Coric and Pablo Carreno Busta. The criticism or Srinivasan who will be the next (India) by journalist Soumitra Bose, a slew of amendments in its new Yet, Srinivasan was removed the world as though Azarenka would roll to her is fair. He opened both matches looking more ICC “boss”, Indian media speculate. which the publication carried on Constitution, will open the door from both BCCI (in 2013) and ICC third Grand Slam singles title as she built a 6/1 like a deer in headlights than the world No. However, The Morning Sports Sunday (13), Srinivasan has said: for Srinivasan to go to the ICC, the (in 2015) owing to the spot-fixing and 2/0 lead, with a game point on serve for 3/0, 7. But each time he figured out a way to win, accurately reported this eventuality “Yes, I want to go to the ICC but I above report further added. scandal involving his IPL team the report added. and there’s something to be said for that. as far back as three months ago, in am waiting for a few things to sort “Ganguly and Jay Shah (current and his son-in-law and CSK Team But as the old saying goes, “champions adjust”, At the end of the day, winning is all that our 12 June 2020 issue (as pictured), out. I will talk about world cricket BCCI President and Secretary) are Principal Gurunath Meiyappan. recalled the above report. It said: “It’s a line Billie matters.” Jean King made famous, and one that many Australia beat England by others repeated on social media as they followed 19 runs in the first of their the gripping contest on television – the only way three-match ODI series, most around the world could take in the Open this played at Manchester on its brand in pole position rugby development. The year without fans in the stands.” in the fiercely competitive new committee’s focus Friday (11) under lights: SLR turns to Dialog telecom industry. We have will be on the middle- Siegemund and Zvonareva Scores: Australia 294/9 in 50 overs (Glenn z Hoping to take the game to the next level a highly practical vision layer Junior Academy for won women’s doubles: Maxwell 77, Mitchell Marsh 73, Marcus Stoinis 43; to be amongst the top U-21, U-24, ‘B’ Division, Laura Siegemund (Germany) and Vera Mark Wood 3/54, Jofra Archer 3/57) and England three in Asia. We need a and multiple Sevens Zvonareva (Russia) beat Xu Yifan 275/9 in 50 over (Sam Billings 118, Jonny Newly appointed Sri Lanka Rugby support SLR’s proposed changes sound sponsorship backing tournaments. In order to (SLR) Head Rizly Illyas is counting in the future under his watch. (China) and Nicole Melichar (US) (Seed Bairstow 84; Adam Zampa 4/55, Josh Hazlewood for that,” Illyas told The successfully execute the 3) 6/4, 6/4 on Friday (11) to clinch this 3/26) on Dialog’s partnership as their lead “Dialog Axiata has consistently Morning Sports. SLR new proposed changes, SLR sponsor to take the game to the next supported Sri Lanka men’s rugby President year’s US Open women’s doubles title. (The second ODI was being staged at the same “SLR will be presenting Rizly Illyas needs a powerhouse to level in these challenging times since 2012 and this year, they have Thiem hot favourite for US venue yesterday (13) when we last updated this a budget to Dialog, Photo Pradeep support it,” Illyas noted, report. The final game will be on Wednesday (16). owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. included schools rugby to their based on a new, exciting Dambarage adding: “We’re going to men’s title: Illyas believes that the leading sports portfolio. Dialog’s association with All games start at 1 p.m. local time (5.30 p.m. SL programme for local and provincial look up to Dialog to step up and Dominic Thiem (Austria/Seed 2) was to time) sponsor, Dialog, will step up to SLR too has played a role to position tournaments as well as for overall provide that additional fire power.” What is SLC’s selection policy? “Those who forget history are doomed to combination for a team is five specialist 29 new players, eight new repeat it.” This has got to be one of the most batsmen, four specialist bowlers, a wicket- Square captains in just four years over-used and clichéd terms in casual writing. keeper, and an all-rounder. In the shorter It has been so overused that the term hardly formats, the team probably will require more Cuts Since Dushmantha Chameera made his even registers a smirk. all-rounders and specialist fielders. by Sudat Pasqual ODI debut in January 2015, 29 players have Judging from the persistent team represented Sri Lanka in just four years composition quagmire of the national team, No consistency, only (January 2015 to June 2019). The number it is quite obvious that Sri Lanka’s national individual thinking of players who represented the country in cricket selectors pay very little heed to history Regardless, to be successful over time, the Unfortunately, this school of thought ODIs during the first 40 years (1975-2015) when they make their selection decisions, or, selections must have a consistent pattern. has never taken root at Sri Lanka Cricket of that format here has been 162. That’s an for that matter, to the idea that the selection A team to be consistently successful at the (SLC). Instead, selections have been driven average of just four new players every year. process should have a cohesive set of goals top level must project to the players what is by ad hoc and individualistic thinking. If But since 2015, the number had almost and a well-defined path to achieve those required to get selected to the national team. there has been a pattern to SLC selections doubled (7.25). When you take Sri Lanka’s objectives. Then the players can make the necessary over the years, it has been that individual ODI captains during those four years, there adjustments in their game both physically player considerations will always trump are as many as eight. There were only 15 Selecting a team and mentally to make themselves contenders. team needs. of them in the 40 years before. Selecting a team of 11 players to play a game of cricket does not require a brilliant intellect or exposure to post-secondary education, although I hope I’ll get to field when you’re bowling again Political influence both would likely add value to the process. z That is the reason why Sri Lanka is always A cricket team has a set of clearly identified On Tony Opatha, my teammate behind the curve when faced with replacing positions. A cricket team has specialist batsmen, Tony Opatha is no longer Tony Opatha never pitch. a successful player, because selectors waited specialist bowlers, a specialist wicket-keeper, with the mortals. We were thought small and that got We all deserve to know too long to groom a successor. The inability and sometimes a specialist captain. One can teammates on the national him in trouble more often at least one Tony Opatha of selectors to take on yesteryear’s stars tweak that combination to include individuals side first and then at than not but not many would in our lives. Tony Opatha leads to players hanging on past their prime who are skilled in more than one area or Nondescripts Cricket Club hold that against Tony. A had an angle on everything and disrupting the smooth transition of individuals who are extremely good in another (NCC). Tony was a bigger- pioneer in many ways and in life and he was always personnel. area such as fielding. than-life-figure in everything pure fun in the dressing searching for a better one. The selection process has also been he did. He was an imposing room. We were not mates Those who found fault with corrupted by the brazen influence-peddling Rationale behind combinations figure physically and always because he was my senior him for that quality missed of player-managers and club officials The most important aspect of selecting a presence in the dressing by 12 years but he never the essence of the man. I with political clout. Throw in ministerial Kithuruwan Vithanage a team is to find the combination that will room. I was in awe when I imposed his seniority on me. am blessed that Tony and I ignorance into the lot and you have a was hit by a Dale Steyn give the team the best opportunity to beat its first played against him at It’s difficult for me to crossed paths. guaranteed recipe for disaster. bouncer in a Test opponents. A combination required for a Test a national trial and I was in accept that I will no longer Once I am done crying, I Maybe one of these days, common sense between Sri Lanka and match will be different than what is required awe at his ability to stretch a bump into Tony at Maitland will miss you Tony. Thanks and the best interests of the team will become South Africa in Colombo in 2014. Vithanage to be successful in the shorter formats and vice tall tale to extended heights Crescent or 5th Lane when for being you! I hope I will the foundation for selection to national teams played 10 Test matches versa. However, all those combinations must during the tour of England I am in Colombo next and get to field when you are at Sri Lanka Cricket. The sooner that day between 2013-15 but be based on precise ideas that can explain in 1979. That is a rare skill hearing that chirpy “Hey bowling again. arrives, the better. was not heard of much the reasoning to arrive at the combination. in a person. Pasky!”, followed by a sales Pasky. (The writer can be reached at since then It may be that in the Test format, the best [email protected])