Anuruddha Polonowita Felicitated for Four Decades of Service to Ananda Cricket

A heartfelt felicitation ceremony was held on 19th June 2025 at Kularatne Hall, Ananda College, to honor Mr. Anuruddha Polonowita, one of the most iconic figures in Sri Lankan school cricket. The event was jointly organized by the Old Anandians’ Sports Club, the Old Anandians’ Cricket Wing, and Ananda College.

Mr. Polonowita served as the head coach of Ananda College for an extraordinary 38 years, producing 26 national players, including Arjuna Ranatunga, the captain of Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup-winning team. His unmatched contribution laid the foundation for generations of cricketing excellence at Ananda and across the country.

The ceremony was graced by several distinguished guests including Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, former Speaker of Parliament; General Kamal Gunarathne, former Secretary of Defense; and Air Chief Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, former Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force. Also in attendance were Mr. Ranjith Pandithage, Chairman and Managing Director of Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC (DIMO); Mr. Michael Tissera, Sri Lanka’s first cricket captain; and many celebrated Anandian and Nalandian cricketers. The present President of the Old Boys’ Association, Mr. Samitha Seneviratne, along with past presidents of the Sports Club and Cricket Wing, also participated in the tribute to Mr. Polonowita’s legacy.

Mr. Lal Dissanayake, Principal of Ananda College, together with the academic staff, non-academic staff, and students, extended their fullest cooperation to make the event a grand success.

Highlights of the morning included a ceremonial Guard of Honour by the Ananda 1st XI, touching speeches, a reflective video tribute, and a panel discussion featuring cricketing luminaries. A musical performance by the Ananda College Music Circle added warmth and tradition to the occasion. The programme concluded with Mr. Polonowita addressing the audience, reflecting on his journey and expressing his heartfelt gratitude.

It was a fitting celebration of a true cricketing pioneer—one who built more than just teams, but a legacy that continues to inspire.