VICTOR MELDER LECTURE 2026 The Lion Roars: A Glimpse of Sri Lanka’s Cricket History, 1832 to 1996
The Lion Roars: A Glimpse of Sri Lanka’s Cricket History, 1832 to 1996
Saturday 7 February, 3pm-4pm
Clayton Community Centre Theatre 9-15 Cooke Street, Clayton
Join us for a captivating and nostalgic journey through time as cricket historian Nimal Chandrasena unveils the rich and often overlooked legacy of Sri Lankan cricket. From its colonial beginnings in 1832 to the triumphant rise to Test status in 1981 and the unforgettable World Cup victory in 1996, this presentation will offer a compelling narrative of passion, perseverance and national pride. It will also explore how the Malays, Burghers, Tamils and the Sinhalese played a pioneering role in establishing cricket in Ceylon together.
Arrive early to enjoy a special exhibition of Sri Lankan sports art before the lecture (available 10am-2.30pm).
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Nimal Chandrasena is a weed scientist by profession, and before migrating to Australia was the first Associate Professor of Botany at the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. He is also a self-confessed cricket tragic and his second book Looking for Doug follows the career of the legendary Australian cricketer Kevin Douglas Walters. His third book The Lion Roars is due for release in 2026.
FREE | Bookings essential
