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Veteran Sri Lankan cricket coach dies after altercation with cricketers
Published : Friday, 14 August, 2026 at 1:28 PM
Observer Online Desk
Veteran Sri Lankan cricket coach Sumith Fernando, who once coached captain Kusal Mendis, passed away at age 62 following an altercation with players which turned fatal.
Preliminary investigations mentioned, "a group of cricketers including the suspect undergoing training at the grounds had gone to a water tap to drink water but found that no water was available."
The incident took place at the Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club in Colombo, and the SL cricket fraternity was left mourning upon the coach's sudden passing. Fernando was taken to the hospital after the dispute on August 8, but he died on Tuesday, August 11.
Coach Sumit Fernando dies after dispute with players
According to Sri Lanka Mirror, a 17-year-old cricketer was arrested by the Cinnamon Gardens Police and has been ordered to remain under the supervision of the Department of Probation and Childcare Services until August 17, 2026.
The suspect was produced before the Colombo Magistrate's Court on August 11, where the order was issued. The cricketer is a resident of Liyanagemulla, Seeduwa.
Preliminary investigations mentioned, "a group of cricketers including the suspect undergoing training at the grounds had gone to a water tap to drink water but found that no water was available."
The lack of water led to an argument between the players and the club employee. Police said that the employee had allegedly attempted to assault the 17-year-old, who then reportedly hit back in retaliation.
Who is Sumith Fernando?
Fernando is a former coach at Prince of Wales' College in Moratuwa, where he coached several young cricketers. He also groomed Sri Lanka's Mendis, who became one of the most prominent cricketers of the island nation and also led the national side in one-day international cricket.
The veteran coach went on to become a curator at the Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club, a club competing in Sri Lanka's domestic cricket. Coach Fernando's funeral was held on Thursday.
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Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
