Jayasuriya’s special statement on 25th anniversary of 1996 World Cup win

Sri Lanka cricket great Sanath Jayasuriya hopes the 1996 cricket World Cup win will be an inspiration to many youngsters who are passionate about the game of cricket.

Issuing a statement on the 25th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s 1996 cricket World Cup win, commemorated today, Jayasuriya said he hopes this win will encourage young cricketers to believe that ‘achieving your dream is possible!’.

“25 years on after our World Cup win! Its every sportsman’s dream to be able to represent their country and I was blessed & privileged to have that opportunity. We had a fantastic supportive President of SLC at the time Mr. Ana Punchihewa & Captain Arujana Ayya who was a father figure to us both on & off the field. His leadership showed us the way. All my team mates with whom I share so many great memories of that series & the World Cup win. We have a special bond & that team spirit and hunger to give our best always for the game,” Jayasuriya said.

“My special thanks to ‘our coaching & support staff, also India & Pakistan whose participation in the series building up to the World Cup helped us gain confidence. It takes relentless hard work, years of undivided attention commitment many highs and lows and a lot of perseverance chasing the dream’.

“I played for my country and the cricket loving public and it was our greatest achievement in the sport when we brought that World Cup home 25 years ago in 1996!” Jayasuriya said.

Sanath Jayasuriya thanked all his team mates, fans, family & friends who have supported him right throughout.

He further said he was unable to join the celebrations today in Colombo as he was away playing for Sri Lanka Legends in the Road Safety World Series in India.

“However, I am there in spirit with Arjuna ayya and the team,” Jayasuriya said.