Chanaka Welegedara made an instant impression in his first season with Westmeadows Cricket Club.
While the club knew they were getting a star bowler – Welegedara played 21 Test matches for Sri Lanka – the left-armer’s leadership and attitude were a bonus.
Warriors’ president Paul Lloyd said the club was impressed by everything the player had brought to the club.
“He has impressed us with his dedication,” he said. “He’s a motivated individual and has been a real breath of fresh air.
“Everyone has enjoyed listening to his stories.”
Such has been Welegedara’s impact that he has been appointed captain-coach for next season.
“He has an appetite to coach,” Lloyd said. “He hasn’t coached before but he captained Tamil Union back in Sri Lanka.
“It’s a good opportunity for others to learn the craft off him.”
Lloyd said that he was hopeful this year’s captain-coach Danny Law would remain at the club.
“Danny is part of the fabric of the club but has had a fair few work commitments this season,” he said. “He has had three years in charge and we think it’s time for a change.”
After relegation last season, the Warriors finished seventh in Victorian Turf Cricket’s north A1 division.
“It was definitely a disappointing season,” Lloyd said.
“We had injuries early on and you need to get early wins.
“We were also hurt by a lack of depth and we weren’t consistent enough with the bat.”
