Sports - Striving to bring back TU’s former glory

Chandra Schaffter an outstanding product of S. Thomas’ College Mt. Lavinia is a double international at cricket and hockey. At present he is the President elect of the Tamil Union. On a quiet evening I met this Tamil Union stalwart for a chat.

In the early 50s West Indies legendary allrounder Learie Constantine was here on a three-month coaching stint on the invitation of late Robert Senanayake President of the BCCSL..

Q: You were a gangling fast bowler with beautiful rhythm. Stanley Jaysinghe a flamboyant batsman in the squad, Constantine spotted both of you as best future prospects and advised you and Stanley to play in England. Jayasinghe made it but not you. Any reasons why?

A: I decided to proceed with my academic career. No regrets. But without doubt Stanley made a great impact as a batsman standing up to the world’s best attacks. I admire him. He helped the Tamil Union as a curator. He is a good friend of mine. I could still get his services.

Q: What made you take over the reins for the third term?

A: We exist on our present form, for the promotion of cricket. P. Sara Stadium, It’s a beautiful large stadium. We built the centre ‘L’ block for the inaugural test match to ensure that Sri Lanka received Test Status. A significant contribution was made by the Tamil Union to this effect. Till about 1985, nearly all first class games were played at the Tamil Union. Then it was ignored more by design, than by default.

Q: You mean business in whatever field.

A: Yes. The TU hierarchy has air-conditioned the late Tryphone Mirando C block which stand sandwiched between T. Murugaser and Sathi Coomeraswamy stands. This was done in his memory for his contributions for the club and for Sri Lanka cricket. Part of the VIP/Invitees section has been air-conditioned. This has nothing to do with the Mirando stand.

Q: Are you aware in the past the NCC, that the Browns Group, tried to make it a corporate Club.

A: There was a mass exodus of members leaving the NCC, as a result. Due to that the club apparently was made to appear like a pub. I will not allow that happening at the Tamil Union.

30 to 40 staff members from Janashakthi have joined TU. They indulge only in sports – badminton, squash etc.

For the past 20 years the TU was open to all races without restrictions.

Q: Hockey was another sport where the Tamil Union made an impact regularly winning the Andriesz Shield and the Pioneer Cup.

A: Yes. We produced some of the best at national level. But sad to mention Sri Lanka was placed as Asia’s No. 3. Today it has deteriorated. I will strive to revive the game at TU. Even to find players is a daunting task.