Vale DS de Silva: Encounters & Partnerships
Charith Senanayake in Facebook, December 2025 ….“In Memory of Mr. D. S. de Silva”
He was a fierce competitor both on and off the field. I still remember, back in the day when CCC played Moratuwa at the Moratuwa Stadium. DS was turning out for Moratuwa as their pro after his Minor county stint.
Our quicks had taken care of their top order, thanks largely to Gordon Parsons (county cricketer and a handful, character)…..Once Gordy was given a breather, DS quietly got on with his innings, grinding, fighting, and building it brick by brick, as he always did. I think he was well past 80 when I was finally given the ball. I always took my bowling more seriously than my batting, mainly because the ball didn’t come my way too often…..!!! I struck DS on the pad, ran down the wicket with a massive appeal, and the ump raised the finger. Out….
DS huffed, puffed, muttered a few choice words, and eventually walked off.
After the game, as we were leaving the Stadium, DS confronted me in the car park. He was in a car (among the few who had cars then) I was on my rather deadly looking motor bike. He blocked my way and shouted, “You little cheat, you knew that wasn’t out!” ……………..
Young junior player or not, I didn’t back down. I replied calmly, “I’m not the one who gave you out, go ask the umpire.” Before he could get out of the car, I was already halfway home….!!
Facing him the next day at the grounds wasn’t easy, but the senior players on both sides made sure the match ended peacefully, with no further incidents.
That episode stayed with me, it taught me to avoid confrontations on the field whenever possible….. True or not, I’ll leave it to those who played with me to decide.
Many years later, I met DS again at SLC, after he replaced Arjuna as Chairman. I was then the Head of Marketing. From day one, it felt like our relationship had resumed exactly where it left off in Moratuwa. Professionally, we were often at loggerheads, personally, there was mutual respect, especially from me, as he was the senior.
However, after one board meeting and a presentation I made, he walked up to me and said, “Mate, this is brilliant. You should patent it or someone here will steal your concept.” That idea became the SLPL. The league kicked off, I was sent home, and the concept was indeed robbed. DS was 100% right.
Later, DS himself was asked to step away due to his role in building stadiums…..The allegations were never proven, and he was sent to Poland as High Commissioner or so I recall.
Looking back, I remember him fondly, despite the arguments and professional differences. Nothing was ever personal. I’m writing this because many friends here know what transpired between us.
In brief, he was a hardworking cricketer, a perfectionist who put in the hard yards and demanded the same from others. I will always remember him fondly.
Goodbye, Boss.
I hope you find lasting peace which you richly deserve.
