Subramaniam Sathasivam

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Subramaniam Sathasivam was a prominent Sri Lankan cricketer and a notable figure in the history of cricket in Sri Lanka. He was born on October 18, 1915, and passed away on July 9, 1977. Sathasivam is often remembered for his exceptional batting skills and his contributions to the sport during the pre-Test era of Sri Lankan cricket.

Early Life

Subramaniam Sathasivam was born in Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. He attended Royal College, Colombo, one of the most prestigious schools in the country, where he began to showcase his cricketing talent. His performances in school cricket earned him a reputation as a promising young cricketer.

Cricket Career

Sathasivam's cricket career spanned from the late 1930s to the early 1950s. He played for the Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club and was known for his elegant batting style. Sathasivam captained the Ceylon cricket team (now known as the Sri Lanka national cricket team) in several unofficial Test matches.

Notable Achievements

One of Sathasivam's most notable achievements was his century against the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in 1949. His performance in this match is often cited as one of the finest innings played by a Sri Lankan cricketer during that era. Sathasivam's contributions to cricket were recognized both locally and internationally, and he was regarded as one of the best batsmen produced by Sri Lanka before the country gained Test status.

Personal Life

Sathasivam's personal life was marked by both triumph and tragedy. He was married to Yvonne, and the couple had three children. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he was accused of murdering his wife in 1951. Sathasivam was acquitted of the charges after a highly publicized trial, but the incident left a lasting impact on his life and career.

Legacy

Despite the controversies, Subramaniam Sathasivam's legacy as a cricketer remains intact. He is remembered as a pioneer of Sri Lankan cricket and a player who brought elegance and skill to the game. His contributions laid the foundation for the future success of Sri Lankan cricket on the international stage.

See Also

• Sri Lanka national cricket team
• Royal College, Colombo
• Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club
• Marylebone Cricket Club