In the world of cricket, where the roar of the crowd can be as electrifying as the play on the field, there was one man who stood out among the thousands of fans. Percy Abeysekara, affectionately known as Uncle Percy, was not just any cricket enthusiast; he was a superfan who left an indelible mark on the sport. On October 30, 2023, this beloved icon passed away at the age of 87, leaving a void that may never be filled.
Born on July 30, 1936, in Boossa, Percy’s journey into cricket fandom began at Richmond College Galle, Sri Lanka. However, it was in 1979 that he initiated a unique form of support that would make him a legend in his own right. Holding the Lion Flag high, Percy led the cheerleading brigade for Sri Lankan cricket, marking the beginning of his enduring love affair with the sport. Percy’s devotion to Sri Lankan cricket was unwavering. Reports indicated that he had been battling health issues in recent times. In recognition of his incredible commitment, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) presented him with a generous donation of Rs. 5 million in September to assist with his well-being and health maintenance.
Percy’s love for cricket was not limited to the boundaries of Sri Lanka. He had been a regular at Sri Lankan cricket matches for more than five decades, but it was during the 1996 World Cup that he gained global prominence. His fervor for the game, characterized by his chants and active participation, transcended borders. He became one of the first prominent traveling superfans in the world of cricket, attending matches not only in his homeland but across the globe.
What set Percy apart was not just his unwavering support for Sri Lanka but also his unique approach to fandom. He wasn’t afraid to jest at players from his team, especially when they made fielding errors near the boundary. It was all in good fun, and the home crowd often joined in, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and entertainment. Percy was known for coming up with rhyming couplets for specific players, tailored to the match he was following. This added an extra layer of excitement and humor to the game.
Percy’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed by the international cricket community. Renowned cricketer Martin Crowe even awarded one of his Man of the Match trophies to Percy as a token of appreciation for his unmatched passion for the game. In a heartwarming gesture, as recently as the Asia Cup this year, Rohit Sharma visited Percy in his home, showing support as he battled the illness that would eventually claim his life.
Uncle Percy’s passing marks the end of an era in the world of cricket fandom. His love, enthusiasm, and unique brand of support for Sri Lankan cricket made him a beloved figure not only in Sri Lanka but also among fans across the globe. He embodied the spirit of unwavering dedication and boundless love for the sport, a passion that may never be matched. Percy Abeysekara’s legacy lives on in the hearts of cricket fans, reminding us of the incredible value he brought to the sport. His Lion Flag may no longer wave in the stands, but his memory will forever inspire future generations of cricket lovers to be as passionate and devoted as he was. Uncle Percy, you will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.
Written By: –
Rtr. Amaan Thaha
(Co-Editor 2023-24)
