Ipswich Srilankika Ekamuthuwa ran the first phase of the programme from October 21 to 25, which was designed to develop young cricketers’ skills.

The programme supported 45 youngsters from Thelijjawila Central College and Malimbada Sri Sumeda College in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.

The initiative was led by an ECB Level 3 cricket coach, Tim Coggins, and assisted by Gayan Sirimanne, the UK charity representative and event coordinator.

At the end of the programme, the charity donated cricket equipment, including bats, balls, pads, and gloves.

Ipswich charity delivers cricket coaching to under-resourced schools (Image: Submitted)

The programme also included a special appearance by Sri Lankan cricket legend Romesh Kaluwitharana, who emphasised the importance of proper training during an exhibition.

Ipswich Srilankika Ekamuthuwa, a registered charity based in Ipswich was established in 2013 and is led by trustees Udaya Priyashantha Pathiranage, Sampath Kahatapitiya, Zulfikar Mihar, and Gayan Sirimanne.

The charity works to enhance the welfare of disadvantaged communities in both the UK and Sri Lanka.