Dhaka: Gamini de Silva, who served as the chief curator for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for 15 years, received a heartfelt farewell from the organization today. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the BCB, where he contributed immensely to the development of cricket pitches.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the farewell ceremony took place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, a venue that de Silva helped maintain. Colleagues and grounds staff gathered to honor his years of service, arranging a reception that was filled with emotional moments. The BCB presented him with a crest in recognition of his contributions, and he was showered with gifts and admiration from his peers, many of whom were visibly moved by the occasion.
De Silva, a Sri Lankan native who transitioned from umpiring to pitch curation, initially joined the BCB on a two-year contract in October 2010. His role was extended over the years, culminating in a 15-year tenure that saw him play a critical role in preparing the Mirpur wicket. However, his career was not without controversy; he faced criticism last September for producing a substandard pitch during the T20 series against Pakistan, drawing complaints from the visiting team's captain and coach.
Despite signing a new one-year contract with the BCB in July, de Silva has decided to return to Sri Lanka with nine months remaining on his contract. In accordance with the contract terms, he will receive two months' salary before his departure on November 10.