Percy: The Unusual Brand

by Kushil Gunasekera

If any student growing up wants to learn how to create a brand of your own, what Percy did can be an example, not necessarily replicating what he did which is his own unique benchmark- a hard act to follow. The point I’m trying to make is that one should not be afraid to establish one’s identity following their passion, but do it the way he did- relentlessly, which eventually became a global one-man-brand that is most extraordinary.

It is time that we recognize such a personality, the one-man Sri Lankan flag bearer who has not only entertained all of us, but that he established long lasting friendships with internationally renowned cricketers whom we saw sending messages of condolence that had touched their heart with his unforgettable, witty, demonstrative art of engaging which others dare not even attempt.

I have known that anyone can copy someone’s work or style, but definitely not the passion to pursue what one enjoys the most. He truly epitomized an unwavering and positive spirit- a remarkable character that lifted up the mood of the spectators- victory or defeat, and his presence on the field lit it up, like giving a heads up even when the odds were against us.

There is no Sri Lankan, as one man, that I know of who has been waving the flag countless times even on a daily basis during a five day Test match, to showcase and highlight the colourful lion symbol of our country with pride which itself could really be a record worthy of the Guinness Book, having done what he did for at least 45 years- a hugely praiseworthy feat that should not go unnoticed, and matchless.

We all know what he did to boost, enhance and motivate not only the fans but the National Team during this long period of association at every given opportunity but standing tall, rain or shine, covering -again hard to count- the many miles, walking at the venues which itself is another record-breaking effort that he did tirelessly.

As someone who was acquainted with Percy for 44 years, since 1979, I have had the unique opportunity to see a different side of his passion for cricket- one that has been closely tied with bringing people and communities together in unity and harmony during the Murali Cup held in the North post-conflict for five consecutive years 2012 – 2016 where he played a pivotal role towards building reconciliation and goodwill through building bridges of friendship. People eagerly awaited his arrival at each venue where he would circle the grounds like no other which is phenomenal, notwithstanding the hot and humid climatic conditions even at his age- a rare gift of the ‘never-give-up’ attitude.

In fact, when I told him in lighter vein that Sir Ian Botham was knighted for walking thousands of miles for charity, Percy responded promptly in his usual inimitable and hilarious manner that he has walked more miles across all of the grounds worldwide, “but not even a good night for me” which is typical of the man- never short of quick witted rhymes, such a statement can only come from him and no other.

We salute and applaud his courageous life, to do what he did and just like any famous cricketer is recognized in this country there was no place that he wasn’t recognized either, even in the North, having had that experience of going along with him which was always an interesting journey, to be accorded a right-royal welcome even at boutiques on the way side with a free cup of ginger tea for his contribution, even by the villagers.

His personality, a lively and vibrant character, cannot be erased from the Sri Lanka cricket arena that will be historically ingrained in the minds of cricket fans who will not see again another stadium ambassador for the spirit of cricket.

May his good deeds benefit
his Sansaric journey!

Sports Editor’s note:Kushil Gunasekara is a former cricketer and a philanthropist. Foundation of Goodness, a charity he initiated, has done much to alleviate poverty in both north and south. Kushil was also a former SLC Secretary and was responsible in successfully conducting the ICC Under-19 World Cup in 2000.