One-man cheer squad ‘Uncle Percy’ bids adieu – By SAJEEWA JAYAKODY Source : dailynews Percy Abeysekera, fondly known as ‘Uncle Percy’ the iconic and longest-serving one-man cheerleader in Sri Lankan cricket, passed away on Monday at the age of 87. Abeysekera was a familiar and heartening figure at cricket grounds for more than seven decades, starting his enthusiastic lion flag-waving support back in 1948 during the pre-Test era. His presence continued through the glorious times of Sri Lankan cricket. Born on July 30, 1936, in Boossa, Southern Sri Lanka, Percy attended Richmond College and St Aloysius College Galle. He was renowned for his exceptional skill in spontaneously crafting quick, humorous rhymes in the English language, endearing himself to the global cricketing community. Percy’s affection for the game extended to his family, naming his son Sampath Garfield in honor of the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers. Later, his grandchildren were named Avinka Garfield ...

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