Sri Lanka’s former fast bowler Rumesh Ratnayake was in a jovial mood when he met the Petaling Jaya Club juniors.

But he was serious when it came to the subject of education for the young cricketers.

Ratnayake, the regional development officer with the Asian Cricket Council, advised the juniors to concentrate on their studies as well.

“I wish I could have given equal concentration to my studies,” he said. “In school, I was quite naughty and did not like the teachers.

“But they tolerated and disciplined me. And I appreciate those teachers today.

“So I would like all young cricket players to stay focused on their studies as well. It does not mean those doing well in their studies cannot shine in cricket.

“Today we have several cricket players who have also done well in their studies.

“PJ Club has created a platform for all of you to be involved in cricket. I would love to see some of you playing for Malaysia in the coming years,’’ said Ratnayake.

Surprisingly, Ratnayake, who was in Malaysia for a fast bowling clinic, was more active in rugby during his school days.

“I loved rugby but it was cricket which gave me everything in life.

“I was lucky to have supporting parents. My father was also a sportsman and was active in boxing and volleyball. I considered myself to be blessed with great parents.

“I was not prepared to disappoint them. I also took advantage of the opportunities to perform to my best abilities.

“There were several students, more talented than me, in cricket. But unfortunately, their parents were not well-off. They were forced to quit when they were either 16 or 17 due to lack of financial support.

“In Malaysia, there are excellent facilities and clubs like PJ Club to help in development programmes.

“Make use of the opportunities and you will be rewarded,’’ said Ratnayake.

During his career, Ratnayake played in 23 Test matches and 70 one day internationals (ODIs) for Sri Lanka from 1982-93.

He was voted as Player of the Match in ODIs twice.

His first was against Australia in 1985 and the second in 1990 against Pakistan.

The 51-year-old Ratnayake said India’s Sachin Tendulkar was one of the cricketers he respected the most.

“He is a good example of a disciplined cricket player. He is a gentleman and humble with his achievements.

“He was very fit and his commitment was 100% as a player. He is not arrogant.

“I had the privilege to play against him and will cherish those moments,’’ said Ratnayake.

Ratnayake also pointed out that Sri Lanka and South Africa had strong junior development programmes.

Both Sri Lanka and South Africa, he added, had good training programmes in schools starting with 11-year-olds.

“It is gradual and systematic, and the students have excellent basics. India also has a fairly good training programme.

“But Australia has an excellent club system. At the age of 13-15, the children will be training with adults.

“The progress is at a very rapid pace. By the age of 17, they are ready for high level competitions.

“When they are 18-19 years old, they are well prepared and ready to play for their country.

“I was 13 when I started playing with adults. It was invaluable exposure and allowed me to progress,’’ explained Ratnayake.

PJ Club cricket convenor K. Jaikishan said they were grateful that Ratnayake spent almost three hours with their junior players.

“When we approached him, he readily agreed to attend the programme. Being an icon, he certainly inspired the children. He interacted with the juniors and also allowed them to ask questions,’’ said Jaikishan.

About 50 juniors are training under coaches Mike Nathan and P. Palanivelu, said Jaikishan.

(The Star)