Andy Newcombe’s Sri Lanka tales

Nov 7, 2025

Apologies for the late report, everyone.  As you’ll soon learn, the UKAF Men’s OV trip to Sri Lanka was full of surprises, both on and off the field!  From the early pre-tour training to the final farewells, I was truly grateful for the chance to score at the highest level of UKAF cricket.  Many thanks to those who nominated me.

With five games scheduled, the tour provided an excellent platform for everyone involved, showcasing impressive individual and team performances.  For anyone who hasn’t visited Sri Lanka, it’s a stunning country with extremely welcoming people—the perfect setting for a cricket tour.  The locals were incredibly friendly, and the grounds were in outstanding condition.

Winning three out of five matches highlighted the skill and depth within UKAF cricket.  Despite challenging conditions and intense humidity that tested everyone’s focus, both players and officials delivered outstanding performances.

Game 1: UKAF scored 167 for 2, defeating ACE Capitals CC (166 for 8) by 8 wickets.  Standout performance: Graham Wiseman 111 not out from 49 balls.

Game 2: Chilaw Marians CC posted 315 for 5, overcoming UKAF’s 314 for 5 by 5 wickets.  Notable contributions: Adam Fisher 127 from 116 balls; Ben Johnston 94 from 69 balls.

Game 3 – UKAF made 264 for 7, beating Saracens CC (208 all out) by 56 runs.  Key player: Adam Fisher 91 from 97 balls.

Unfortunately, Game 3 turned out to be my last of the tour, as I contracted Chikungunya—a serious virus. This illness marked a turning point for me and serves as a crucial reminder for all ACO members selected for OVs: ensure your vaccinations are up to date before touring, follow all medical advice, and apply insect repellent regularly.

I’m very grateful to Martin ‘Seaweed’ Seward for filling in as scorer during my illness and to the entire UKAF touring party for their support.  I’ll probably never again report ‘game stopped play by marching band’ as happened in Colombo!

Despite my illness, the tour was a fantastic experience overall, and I highly recommend accepting the chance to tour if it comes up.

See you next season!

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