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The Colombo Malay Cricket Club (CMCC), Sri Lanka’s oldest cricket club, has entered a historic phase of excellence.
Established in 1872, this iconic institution has been a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket for over a century and a half. The past two years, however, have seen a remarkable resurgence, driven by a perfect blend of rich history, young talent and visionary leadership.
After celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023 with a historic first-ever Governor’s Trophy win, CMCC sustained its upward momentum into 2024, producing an extraordinary season that has brought pride to its legacy. Under the guidance of head coach Wadiba Perera and the dynamic leadership of officials like Roshan Allang and Rizwan Badoordeen, CMCC has transformed from a club steeped in tradition into a powerhouse in Tier B cricket.
Reflecting on the club’s recent success, Roshan Allang, chairman of the CMCC Cricket Committee said: “2024 has been nothing short of remarkable for us. Our achievements this year – winning two championships, a runners-up finish and a third place are a testament to the dedication of our players, the brilliance of our coaching staff and the unwavering support of our officials. This is the culmination of years of effort to rebuild CMCC into a force to be reckoned with.”
Much of CMCC’s recent triumph can be attributed to head coach Wadiba Perera, a man whose journey from a promising young cricketer to a celebrated coach exemplifies resilience and determination.
Wadiba represented Sri Lanka in the Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 teams as a fast-bowling all-rounder. His future in cricket seemed bright until a debilitating injury at the age of 18 ended his playing career prematurely. Undeterred, Wadiba turned his focus to coaching, mentored by Duminda Gunasekera, who instilled in him the principles of leadership and player development.
“I owe much of my coaching foundation to Duminda,” Wadiba recalled. “He taught me that coaching is about more than just technique – it’s about understanding players, motivating them and building unity within a team.”
Over a span of 18 years, Wadiba built an impressive coaching resume. He began with Kottawa Dharmapala College and later shaped cricket programmes at his alma mater Isipathana College and Lumbini College. At the club level, he brought success to Nugegoda Cricket Club, guiding them to a Governor’s Trophy win during his tenure. He also served as assistant coach at Tamil Union, helping them achieve a Premier Division runner-up finish, and led Kalutara Town Club in the Premier Division for four years.
In 2017, Wadiba was invited to join CMCC by Badoordeen, who saw his potential to transform the club. “It was Rizwan who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to coach CMCC,” Wadiba said. “It’s been an incredible journey and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
CMCC’s 2024 campaign was a true testament to their growth and preparation. The team began the year with focused fitness training, ensuring they were in peak condition for the gruelling season ahead. The results spoke for themselves as CMCC emerged as champions in the Under-21 Premier Two-Day League, remaining unbeaten throughout.
They finished as runners-up in the One-Day 50-Over Tournament, secured third place in the Tier B Three-Day League and also claimed the T20 championship.
“This year has been special,” said Wadiba. “The unity among the players, the effort they’ve put in and the support from the club management have all been outstanding. We started early, sacrificing personal time and putting everything into preparation. This level of commitment is what creates champions.”
Key performers included the captain Sudara Dakshina, a left-arm spinner whose calm leadership has been pivotal across all formats, and Kalana Madushanka, a batting all-rounder who excelled in both T20 and one-day formats.
Other notable contributions came from players like Buddhika Madushan, a versatile all-rounder, Terone Baskaran and Hirantha Jayasinghe both reliable batsmen who anchored key innings and Sithuka Gunawardena, the Under-21 captain from Isipathana College, who led the youth side to an unbeaten championship.
Wadiba praised the team’s bowling attack, calling it the backbone of their success. “Our bowlers, particularly Sudara, Kalana, off spinner Kavinda Ishwara and all rounder Buddhika who opens batting and bowling, were outstanding.
“They consistently delivered under pressure and that’s what makes this team special – it’s not just about individual talent but how we work together.”
CMCC’s transformation is not only due to its players and coaching staff but also the leadership of its committee headed by club President Rinaldin Rahaman. The guidance of figures like Roshan Allang, Rizwan Badoordeen, Irfan Allang, Haroon Musafer, retired Brigadier Kumban Bohoran and Ibnusha Ally has been critical in fostering a culture of excellence.
Speaking about the committee’s role, Wadiba said: “The club management, especially Roshan and Rizwan have been exceptional in their support. They provided everything we needed, from resources to moral support. Their vision for CMCC goes beyond trophies – they are building a legacy.”
Roshan, who has been deeply involved in the club’s cricketing revival, underlined the importance of nurturing young talent and maintaining CMCC’s historical values. “This club has a rich history, but we are focussed on the future. Our goal is to elevate CMCC to Premier Tier A by 2026 while continuing to develop young cricketers who can represent Sri Lanka at the highest levels,” he said.
CMCC’s ambitions remain high. Defending their Under-21 title and claiming the Tier B Three-Day League are immediate targets. Longer-term, the club aims to secure promotion to Tier A by 2026, a challenge that will require sustained effort and investment.
“Coaching CMCC has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. This club isn’t just about cricket – it’s about community, history and the future. We’ve built something special and I’m excited about what lies ahead,” said Wadiba.
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