Duncan.C.Balarajah
( Old boy and President of JCC Old Boys’ Association,Canda)
After 20 years, on March 16, 2004, I flew to Jaffna from Colombo and arrived at Pallaly Airport at 9.10 am. Enroute to Jaffna town, I had to pass many army check points and finally reached “Yarl Pardie” at 11.30 am.
Immediately on arrival I phoned Mr.K.Rasathurai, principal, Jaffna Central
College, and on introducing myself, he gladly agreed to meet me on Wednesday,
the 17th at 9.00 am.
When we met, we discussed many topics about the college. He also introduced
me to the two deputy principals. The following day being a busy day due to the
“big match”, without any hesitation he spent an hour and a half
explaining to me about the current development and construction work taking
place, for which the government has already allocated funds. He also discussed
future plans/proposals to build a hostel for boarders and an indoor stadium.
While we were moving about, he kept an eye on the activities of students away
from classes and insisting students on wearing the college tie which gave me
an impression that he is a strict disciplinarian. I was also introduced to the
lower school kids and their teachers (photos taken appear elsewhere in the souvenir).
A visit to the library was made, and the principal showed me the books donated
by the OBA (Canada branch).
On Thursday the 18th, along with other old boys of JCC who had gone from Canada, we arrived at the grounds to watch the “ Big Match”. Initially a march past took place, participants being: the principals of schools, players, prefects, and coaches. Thereafter College flags were raised by the respective principals. Past cricket captains of both schools were garlanded and honoured by the principals. The atmosphere prior to the match was extremely exciting, particularly students of both schools were revelling by invading the playgrounds, with college flags both at play and otherwise.
First day play started at 10.30 am with Central winning the toss and electing to bat. Wickets fell at regular intervals. When the play ended, Central was all out for 101 runs and St.Johns, scored 80 runs for the loss of 4 wickets. Next day St.Johns scored 210 runs in their first innings and Central was 93 for 3 wickets in their second innings. At about 6 pm a 6 a side, 6 over cricket match between a Colombo team and a Jaffna team, sponsored by the Janasakthi Insurance Company was played. Colombo team was captained by Rohan Mahanama, the former Sri Lankan player. The Jaffna team composed of old boys from both colleges. Colombo team won the match and a crowd of over 10,000 watched the match.
On the last day of play, Central was all out for 245 runs in their second innings and St.Johns needed 145 runs to win the match. St.John’s team was batting well and when they needed only 23 runs with 7 wickets in hand and 15 overs of play left, a group carrying the Central flag invaded the field. Fire crackers were lit and in the melee, unidentified persons set fire to the matting area. Having put off the fire and following the pandemonium, the principals decided to replace the damaged matting and continue the match. This effort failed and since it was getting dark and the play was abandoned for the day. It was decided to continue the play next day. However our principal Mr.K.Rasathurai, having thought over and in true sportsmanship revoked the idea and declared St.John as the winner of the match.
On the next day(Sunday) awards were made to the team players. This was followed by a one day Cricket match between the old boys of both colleges. In this match St. John won by 43 runs.Mr.Rsathurai hosted a dinner, the same day for the old boys of JCC who had come from abroad for this match at his residence.
During this visit, I went to the University of Jaffna and met Professor Mohanadas, the Vice- Chancellor, and discussed with him the outstanding issue of funding a Bursary scheme to students of Jaffna Central College entering the University of Jaffna. Further correspondence is now taking place on this matter.
I also took this opportunity to visit many war damaged towns and villages . It was shocking to notice the extent of damage inflicted to many buildings and other infrastructure. It is beyond description how a beautiful and once peaceful place has been devastated by recurring wars
My visit to my home land after 20 years was indeed a memorable one. I had the opportunity to watch a historic match, meet past colleagues, friends and relatives. In spite of the hardships, it is heartening to see the school is flourishing under the leadership of a dedicated principal and staff.