Marking a 30-year world cup win: ‘96 cricket legends present at SLCF-ICT MOU signing to support cancer patients

 Sri Lankan cricket legends Aravinda de Silva (left) and Sanath Jayasuriya (right) were there to throw their weight behind an inspirational cause when a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Sri Lanka Cricket Foundation and Indira Cancer Trust to promote the welfare of cancer patients. Here the duo are seen signing a token bat for one of the children who was present at the event (Pics by Nisal Baduge)

• “This collaboration between SLCF and ICT was initiated to support the ‘Make-A-Wish’ programme under the Indira Cancer Trust. We were also able to work with the Cricket Board to bring the World Cup trophy here and display it, marking the significance of this occasion and reviving cherished memories” - Navin Dissanayake Chairman of SLCF
• “ The Trust has brought hope to many young lives, reinforcing the message that cancer is not the end, despite the difficult journey it brings for patients and their families. With compassion and commitment, we continue to support those in need while promoting the spirit of volunteerism” - Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, Chairperson of ICT

By Zainab Hussein 

To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s historic 1996 ICC Cricket World Cup victory, and to mark the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Sri Lanka Cricket Foundation (SLCF) and Indira Cancer Trust (ICT), a ceremony was held on March 17 (Tuesday) at the Indira Cancer Trust premises in Maharagama. 
Set against this historic backdrop, the MOU was signed to establish a partnership and give hope to children enduring critical illnesses through the inspirational power of cricket. The champion Sri Lankan team players gathered to celebrate the 30 year legacy of the country’s greatest sporting triumph – one that united the nation in pride and transformed the course of Sri Lankan cricket forever. 

The picture shows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between representatives of Sri Lanka Cricket Foundation and Indira Cancer Trust

Children battling illnesses and receiving treatment at Indira Cancer Trust pose for a photograph along with some of the members of the 1996 World Cup Winning team. The Wills World Cup which was won by Sri Lanka was also displayed at the event 

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Chairman of SLCF, Navin Dissanayake remarked, “This collaboration between SLCF and ICT was initiated to support the ‘Make-A-Wish’ programme under the Indira Cancer Trust. We were also able to work with the Cricket Board to bring the World Cup trophy here and display it, marking the significance of this occasion and reviving cherished memories. When we won the World Cup, Sri Lankan cricket—which had not been widely recognised before—finally gained a global platform that helped showcase our local talent,” he noted and explained the vital role played by the Indira Cancer Trust in supporting those affected by cancer, particularly breast cancer, which is an increasing concern among the female population in the country. He emphasised the importance of raising awareness and educating the public on women’s health to enable early detection and timely treatment, an effort the Trust continues to lead.
‘Make a Wish’ Programme 
Founded in 2016, the Indira Cancer Trust is a leading Sri Lankan organisation supporting families affected by cancer and other serious illnesses through programmes focused on psychosocial care, patient support, awareness, and accommodation for those travelling for treatment. It also runs the Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka programme, granting wishes to children aged 3 to 17 with critical illnesses. ICT states that for children undergoing long and difficult medical treatment, a wish represents far more than a moment of joy. It becomes a powerful source of hope, courage and strength amidst one of the most challenging periods of their lives.
Following a tribute video of Sri Lanka’s 1996 victory, the SLCF presented commemorative tokens to some of the members of the world cup winning team in recognition of their contribution to Sri Lankan cricket. Those present for honours were cricketing icons such as Aravinda de Silva, Sanath Jayasuriya, Ravindra Pushpakumara, Chaminda Vaas, Pramodya Wickramasinghe, Upul Chandana and Roshan Mahanama. The SLCF states that the foundation has long supported the development of cricket while using the sport to uplift communities. Through this new partnership, children inspired by cricket will have opportunities to visit facilities, meet players, and experience Sri Lanka Cricket firsthand. As part of the occasion, token bats signed by the players were presented to a few selected children. 
Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, Chairperson of ICT explained that while cricket and cancer may seem unrelated, they share important similarities - discipline, determination, and the strength to rise after setbacks, each being a battle in its own way. She added that the Trust was established a decade ago by her father, Karu Jayasuriya (a former politician), in memory of her sister, Indira who passed away from breast cancer, and that its work reflects her sister’s optimism and courage in fighting until the very end. “The Trust has brought hope to many young lives, reinforcing the message that cancer is not the end, despite the difficult journey it brings for patients and their families. With compassion and commitment, we continue to support those in need while promoting the spirit of volunteerism,” she concluded while expressing her gratitude to SLCF and the 1996 team for pledging their support.