Kamindu and Chamari take top honours at glittering SLC Awards Night

It was a night to remember and cricketing nostalgia as the annual Sri Lanka Cricket Awards returned with a bang at the opulent City of Dreams resort in Colombo. After a lull that saw the event hit a bit of a dead patch, the gala was revived in grand style, thanks to the partnership of real estate giant Home Lands.

- BY REX CLEMENTINE

The who's who of Sri Lankan cricket turned up - past legends, club delegates, selectors, coaches, international and club cricketers and sporting icons from across the board. Over the course of three lively hours, the cricketing fraternity celebrated those who had left their mark on the game, both at home and abroad.

While several young entertainers kept the crowd on their toes, it was the evergreen Rookantha Gunathilaka who hit all the right notes — proving that class, like form, is permanent. His performance, much like a vintage innings under pressure, stole the spotlight and the hearts of the audience.

Chief Guest and Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage struck a patriotic chord, expressing his dream of seeing Sri Lanka lift another World Cup. He reserved special praise for Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya, whose stewardship has brought about a spirited resurgence in the national setup.

SLC President Shammi Silva commended the award winners and paid tribute to their commitment in restoring Sri Lanka's reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the world stage.