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Spin-wizard ‘Murali' - a legend of a life-time
By Bernie Wijesekera
On the eve of the Sinhala-Hindu New Year celebrations, Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club, felicitated Sri Lanka's mercurial spinner Muttiah Muralitharan before a colourful gathering. People drawn from all walks of life including past celebrities (cricketers) were among the large gathering to 'Salute the 'King of spin'.

Selva Perumal the president of the club said, “Imagine 1000 international wickets, 600 in tests wickets and that, too with a 5-wicket haul against every test playing nation is a rare milestone.

He said the effort by 'Murali' will be hard to beat. He had his ups and downs, but still respected the traditions and the spirit of the game at all levels
P. Saravanamuttu, yet another legend of the club, the first President of the Board of control for Cricket in Sri Lanka. Mercurial M. Satasivam a world class batsman, is the batting counterpart of 'Murali'. Today the club’s doors are open to all. 'Murali' with his wiles has brought forth unity among all races.

The colourful gathering assembled here is a testimony to this effect. Perumal unveiled a life-size photograph of 'Murali' and a plaque to mark the occasion for a life time. 'Satha' and 'Murali' have done proud for the country and the club. Tamil Union have contributed much for the development of the game since 1940. The picturesque venue has served international cricket for nearly 4 decades.

“We will continue to do so with 'Murali" being one of the cogs in the wheel” said Perumal. The event was sponsored by Janashakthi and co-sponsored by United Parcel Service and Ceylon Cold Stores. It was followed by a musical extravaganza.

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