Tuesday, October 15, 2024
"Triple hat-trick" Remains an Extraordinarily Rare and Elusive Occurrence
A "triple hat-trick" in cricket refers to an extraordinary achievement where a bowler takes four wickets in four consecutive deliveries.
While the term "hat-trick" typically refers to taking three wickets with three successive balls, a "triple hat-trick" extends that by one more ball and wicket.
It is an extremely rare feat in cricket due to the difficulty of dismissing four batsmen in as many consecutive deliveries.
Some people may informally use the term "triple hat-trick" to describe even more consecutive dismissals (e.g., five wickets in five balls), but technically, the term applies to four in four.
No cricketer has ever officially achieved a "triple hat-trick" (four wickets in four consecutive deliveries) in an international match.
However, there have been several instances where bowlers have come close by taking hat-tricks or even four wickets in five balls.
Here are a few notable achievements related to multiple wickets in short spans:
Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka):
Malinga took four wickets in four balls against South Africa in the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup.
This is one of the most famous examples where a bowler came close to achieving a "triple hat-trick," as he dismissed four South African batsmen in consecutive deliveries (two at the end of one over and two at the beginning of the next).
Curtly Ambrose (West Indies):
While Ambrose did not take four consecutive wickets, he once took seven wickets for just one run in a devastating spell against Australia in 1993, though these were not all on consecutive deliveries.
While the feat of four in four deliveries has happened in other formats or lower-level cricket, the "triple hat-trick" remains an extraordinarily rare and elusive occurrence in top-level international matches.
While the term "hat-trick" typically refers to taking three wickets with three successive balls, a "triple hat-trick" extends that by one more ball and wicket.
It is an extremely rare feat in cricket due to the difficulty of dismissing four batsmen in as many consecutive deliveries.
Some people may informally use the term "triple hat-trick" to describe even more consecutive dismissals (e.g., five wickets in five balls), but technically, the term applies to four in four.
No cricketer has ever officially achieved a "triple hat-trick" (four wickets in four consecutive deliveries) in an international match.
However, there have been several instances where bowlers have come close by taking hat-tricks or even four wickets in five balls.
Here are a few notable achievements related to multiple wickets in short spans:
Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka):
Malinga took four wickets in four balls against South Africa in the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup.
This is one of the most famous examples where a bowler came close to achieving a "triple hat-trick," as he dismissed four South African batsmen in consecutive deliveries (two at the end of one over and two at the beginning of the next).
Curtly Ambrose (West Indies):
While Ambrose did not take four consecutive wickets, he once took seven wickets for just one run in a devastating spell against Australia in 1993, though these were not all on consecutive deliveries.
While the feat of four in four deliveries has happened in other formats or lower-level cricket, the "triple hat-trick" remains an extraordinarily rare and elusive occurrence in top-level international matches.
Sunday, October 13, 2024
Nominating Visually Impaired Candidate in an Election - Inclusiveness or Political Exploitation
Nominating a visually impaired candidate in an election is a progressive move that reflects inclusivity and a commitment to diversity.
However, such a decision comes with both pros and cons and if the person is voted in, certain preparations will be necessary to ensure they can fulfill their role effectively.
Pros
1. Promotes exclusivity and representation:
Nominating a visually impaired person sends a powerful message about the importance of diversity in politics. It highlights the value of providing representation to people with disabilities and shows that barriers to participation can be overcome.
2. Advocacy for disability rights:
A candidate with firsthand experience of living with a disability is likely to be a strong advocate for policies that support the disabled community. This could lead to more inclusive public policies and improvements in accessibility across the country.
3. Challenges societal biases:
Electing someone with a visual impairment can help shift public perceptions about the abilities of disabled individuals. It demonstrates that leadership and governance are not limited by physical limitations but rather by intellect, vision, and dedication.
4. Encourages broader participation:
This decision can inspire other marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, to engage in politics and public service, knowing that their conditions do not prevent them from holding office.
Cons
1. Public perception and prejudice:
There may still be some level of societal prejudice or skepticism about whether a person with a disability can effectively perform the duties required of a politician. Some voters may have concerns about their capacity to engage with certain tasks or represent them fully.
2. Accessibility and adaptability challenges:
Government offices and public spaces might not yet be fully accessible, making it difficult for the candidate to navigate their role. This could present a logistical challenge unless sufficient accommodations are made in advance.
3. Communication barriers:
While a visually impaired politician may be highly capable, communication and document access (especially in non-digital formats) could be a challenge. This may limit their ability to interact with certain information channels or constituents who rely on written materials.
4. Political exploitation:
In some cases, there may be criticism or accusations that the party is using the visually impaired candidate as a token gesture to garner votes from sympathetic voters, without real consideration for their policies or leadership.
Preparations if the Candidate is Elected
1. Assistive technology and equipment:
The candidate will need access to technologies such as screen readers, braille displays, and voice recognition software to handle written documents, emails, and other correspondence. Offices should be equipped with these assistive devices.
2. Personal assistant or accessibility officer:
A dedicated assistant could help with tasks that require visual perception, such as navigating large gatherings, interpreting non-verbal cues, or managing documents in meetings.
3. Accessible infrastructure:
Government buildings, offices, and public spaces should be equipped with accessible infrastructure, including ramps, tactile guidance paths, and accessible restrooms, to ensure mobility and independence for the candidate.
4. Specialized training for staff:
The candidate’s staff may need training on disability awareness and how to support their boss effectively, ensuring smooth communication and office functioning.
5. Public outreach adaptations:
The visually impaired politician may rely more on radio, social media, and voice-based platforms for outreach, so extra emphasis may be needed on digital and auditory forms of communication when connecting with the public.
6. Parliamentary procedures and materials:
If elected to parliament, provisions should be made for accessible versions of legislative documents, motions, and reports. Parliamentary sessions may also need adjustments in how visual presentations are handled during debates.
However, such a decision comes with both pros and cons and if the person is voted in, certain preparations will be necessary to ensure they can fulfill their role effectively.
Pros
1. Promotes exclusivity and representation:
Nominating a visually impaired person sends a powerful message about the importance of diversity in politics. It highlights the value of providing representation to people with disabilities and shows that barriers to participation can be overcome.
2. Advocacy for disability rights:
A candidate with firsthand experience of living with a disability is likely to be a strong advocate for policies that support the disabled community. This could lead to more inclusive public policies and improvements in accessibility across the country.
3. Challenges societal biases:
Electing someone with a visual impairment can help shift public perceptions about the abilities of disabled individuals. It demonstrates that leadership and governance are not limited by physical limitations but rather by intellect, vision, and dedication.
4. Encourages broader participation:
This decision can inspire other marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, to engage in politics and public service, knowing that their conditions do not prevent them from holding office.
Cons
1. Public perception and prejudice:
There may still be some level of societal prejudice or skepticism about whether a person with a disability can effectively perform the duties required of a politician. Some voters may have concerns about their capacity to engage with certain tasks or represent them fully.
2. Accessibility and adaptability challenges:
Government offices and public spaces might not yet be fully accessible, making it difficult for the candidate to navigate their role. This could present a logistical challenge unless sufficient accommodations are made in advance.
3. Communication barriers:
While a visually impaired politician may be highly capable, communication and document access (especially in non-digital formats) could be a challenge. This may limit their ability to interact with certain information channels or constituents who rely on written materials.
4. Political exploitation:
In some cases, there may be criticism or accusations that the party is using the visually impaired candidate as a token gesture to garner votes from sympathetic voters, without real consideration for their policies or leadership.
Preparations if the Candidate is Elected
1. Assistive technology and equipment:
The candidate will need access to technologies such as screen readers, braille displays, and voice recognition software to handle written documents, emails, and other correspondence. Offices should be equipped with these assistive devices.
2. Personal assistant or accessibility officer:
A dedicated assistant could help with tasks that require visual perception, such as navigating large gatherings, interpreting non-verbal cues, or managing documents in meetings.
3. Accessible infrastructure:
Government buildings, offices, and public spaces should be equipped with accessible infrastructure, including ramps, tactile guidance paths, and accessible restrooms, to ensure mobility and independence for the candidate.
4. Specialized training for staff:
The candidate’s staff may need training on disability awareness and how to support their boss effectively, ensuring smooth communication and office functioning.
5. Public outreach adaptations:
The visually impaired politician may rely more on radio, social media, and voice-based platforms for outreach, so extra emphasis may be needed on digital and auditory forms of communication when connecting with the public.
6. Parliamentary procedures and materials:
If elected to parliament, provisions should be made for accessible versions of legislative documents, motions, and reports. Parliamentary sessions may also need adjustments in how visual presentations are handled during debates.
Overall, this move promotes equity and sends a strong message about the possibilities of leadership for all citizens, regardless of physical ability, provided the right infrastructure is in place to support them.
Friday, October 11, 2024
Meritocracy in Leadership Appointments.
The recent appointment of a former Sri Lanka Air Force chief as the Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited, the state-run airport management company, has been the subject of much debate.
While it may seem like a newsworthy event, in reality, it follows a long-established pattern of selecting top military personnel for civilian roles.
This practice, however, raises several questions.
First, the company is registered as a "Private" entity, yet government influence over decision-making appears as strong as ever.
How private can it truly be when the government retains control over its leadership appointments?
More troubling is the broader implication of bringing in an outsider, someone who, while distinguished in his chosen field, is not very familiar with the intricacies of managing a specialized organization like Airport and Aviation Services.
Why isn't there a system in place to groom leaders from within the company?
Many successful private sector companies invest in the training and professional development of their employees, ensuring that when a top position becomes vacant, there are capable candidates ready to step in.
This not only maintains continuity but boosts morale and productivity by demonstrating a clear path to career progression.
When employees know that their hard work and commitment can lead to leadership roles, it creates a sense of motivation and loyalty.
On the other hand, if the top positions are seen as reserved for outsiders, often with political connections, any sense of fairness and meritocracy within the organization is lost, and morale inevitably suffers.
So, why hasn’t such a career development program been implemented in these state-linked enterprises?
One possibility is that these leadership roles are intentionally kept available for political appointees, ensuring a means of rewarding loyalists and “back-scratchers.”
Another possibility is that even within the organization, political influence has played a role in staffing, leading to a workforce that may not have the skills or merit to rise through the ranks.
Regardless of the reason, the end result is the same: inefficiency and frustration among capable individuals within the organization.
If the goal is to truly manage this company like a private enterprise, it’s time to abandon the old patterns of political patronage and establish a genuine system of career development and progression.
This would not only empower employees but also help the organization thrive in a competitive, global aviation industry.
While it may seem like a newsworthy event, in reality, it follows a long-established pattern of selecting top military personnel for civilian roles.
This practice, however, raises several questions.
First, the company is registered as a "Private" entity, yet government influence over decision-making appears as strong as ever.
How private can it truly be when the government retains control over its leadership appointments?
More troubling is the broader implication of bringing in an outsider, someone who, while distinguished in his chosen field, is not very familiar with the intricacies of managing a specialized organization like Airport and Aviation Services.
Why isn't there a system in place to groom leaders from within the company?
Many successful private sector companies invest in the training and professional development of their employees, ensuring that when a top position becomes vacant, there are capable candidates ready to step in.
This not only maintains continuity but boosts morale and productivity by demonstrating a clear path to career progression.
When employees know that their hard work and commitment can lead to leadership roles, it creates a sense of motivation and loyalty.
On the other hand, if the top positions are seen as reserved for outsiders, often with political connections, any sense of fairness and meritocracy within the organization is lost, and morale inevitably suffers.
So, why hasn’t such a career development program been implemented in these state-linked enterprises?
One possibility is that these leadership roles are intentionally kept available for political appointees, ensuring a means of rewarding loyalists and “back-scratchers.”
Another possibility is that even within the organization, political influence has played a role in staffing, leading to a workforce that may not have the skills or merit to rise through the ranks.
Regardless of the reason, the end result is the same: inefficiency and frustration among capable individuals within the organization.
If the goal is to truly manage this company like a private enterprise, it’s time to abandon the old patterns of political patronage and establish a genuine system of career development and progression.
This would not only empower employees but also help the organization thrive in a competitive, global aviation industry.
Thursday, October 10, 2024
Wednesday, October 09, 2024
Corruption on Sr Lanka Train
The Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka, recently made headlines again, and it's an opportune moment to share a personal story connected to it.
During our daughter's recent visit to Sri Lanka, she and a friend decided to explore Ella, a common destination for many tourists.
They bought tickets for the train, like most travellers, intending to disembark at Ella.
During their journey, a railway security officer, who also doubled as a ticket checker, approached them, seemingly to inspect their tickets.
During their journey, a railway security officer, who also doubled as a ticket checker, approached them, seemingly to inspect their tickets.
Discovering that their journey was to end in Ella, he made an unsolicited suggestion: “Why not continue to the next station?
The train will stop on the Nine Arches Bridge for at least 10 minutes, and you can take as many photos as you like.”
My daughter, always one to follow the rules, pointed out that their tickets were valid only up to Ella and not for Demodara, the station beyond the bridge.
My daughter, always one to follow the rules, pointed out that their tickets were valid only up to Ella and not for Demodara, the station beyond the bridge.
The officer replied, “We can allow you to continue, but it will cost you something.”
Intrigued, they asked how much, and he quoted Rs. 1500 per passenger. Both women declined the offer and got off at Ella, their planned stop.
This incident, though seemingly minor, is just one of the countless examples of corruption in the system.
This incident, though seemingly minor, is just one of the countless examples of corruption in the system.
It's a reflection of a much broader issue where many acknowledge the need for systemic reform, but few take steps toward real change.
People like this railway officer exploit their positions, indulging in petty corruption that has become ingrained in daily life.
At first, I was inclined to report this to the railway authorities, but on further reflection, I realized that the very authority meant to uphold integrity is likely more corrupt than the individuals they employ.
At first, I was inclined to report this to the railway authorities, but on further reflection, I realized that the very authority meant to uphold integrity is likely more corrupt than the individuals they employ.
This small encounter on a train in Sri Lanka reveals a deeper truth about the unchecked decay of a system that people are either too complacent or too complicit to fix.
Tuesday, October 08, 2024
The Politics of Qualifications: Does Education Define Success?
Sri Lanka’s current Prime Minister, who holds a PhD in Anthropology, has sparked conversations on social media, where many are hailing her as the most academically qualified leader in the nation's history.
Indeed, the fact is irrefutable, but it raises a broader, more nuanced question: Is there a direct correlation between academic qualifications and political success?
The debate over what makes a politician successful is as old as politics itself, but education is often brought into the discussion.
The debate over what makes a politician successful is as old as politics itself, but education is often brought into the discussion.
Does possessing a prestigious degree guarantee good governance?
Does academic prowess naturally translate into political effectiveness?
Looking back at our own history, the answer seems to be far from straightforward.
Sri Lanka gave the world its first female Prime Minister, Mrs. Sirima Bandaranaike, who held only a Junior School Certificate (JSC).
Looking back at our own history, the answer seems to be far from straightforward.
Sri Lanka gave the world its first female Prime Minister, Mrs. Sirima Bandaranaike, who held only a Junior School Certificate (JSC).
Her supporters, especially those aligned with leftist ideologies, argue that she was one of the most successful leaders the country has seen.
Known for her policies of nationalization and her firm stance on non-alignment, Bandaranaike shaped Sri Lankan politics during tumultuous times with a vision that resonated deeply with many.
On the other hand, supporters of J. R. Jayewardene, who was educated at the University of Ceylon, championed his economic reforms and the introduction of the executive presidency.
On the other hand, supporters of J. R. Jayewardene, who was educated at the University of Ceylon, championed his economic reforms and the introduction of the executive presidency.
He led Sri Lanka through a period of significant economic and political transformation.
Any of his advocates believe he ranks as the country’s most accomplished leader, with his educational background lending him a certain intellectual rigour that translated into his governance style.
Both Bandaranaike and Jayewardene achieved tremendous success in their own rights, despite their vastly different educational backgrounds.
Both Bandaranaike and Jayewardene achieved tremendous success in their own rights, despite their vastly different educational backgrounds.
Their contrasting stories underline an important point: academic qualifications alone do not dictate political success.
Politics, after all, is a different beast.
A PhD in Anthropology may provide insight into human behaviour and social systems, but does it prepare one to navigate the choppy waters of political power, diplomacy, and governance?
A PhD in Anthropology may provide insight into human behaviour and social systems, but does it prepare one to navigate the choppy waters of political power, diplomacy, and governance?
Conversely, does the absence of an academic degree mean one lacks the vision or leadership required to inspire a nation?
The world stage offers numerous examples.
The world stage offers numerous examples.
Winston Churchill, who led Britain through World War II, was famously disinterested in his formal studies, yet his leadership remains legendary.
Nelson Mandela, with his legal education, used his knowledge to dismantle apartheid, but it was his resilience, not just his education, that made him an icon.
At the same time, countless highly educated leaders have failed miserably, unable to translate academic success into political acumen.
So, does a PhD make someone a better Prime Minister?
So, does a PhD make someone a better Prime Minister?
The truth is, it’s too early to say.
Our new leader has only been on the job for a few weeks, and it will take time for us to measure her success, not by her qualifications, but by her ability to connect with people, make tough decisions, and lead the country forward.
Ultimately, politics is about people.
Ultimately, politics is about people.
Success in politics requires the ability to understand human needs, articulate a vision, and, most importantly, inspire trust.
While education provides a toolkit, it is no substitute for the complex, deeply human qualities that define political leadership.
Whether one’s path to power is paved with academic accolades or life experience, history suggests there is no one formula for success.
What matters most is how effectively a leader can navigate the intricacies of governance, steer the country through crises, and leave a legacy that resonates with the people, not the letters after their name.
What matters most is how effectively a leader can navigate the intricacies of governance, steer the country through crises, and leave a legacy that resonates with the people, not the letters after their name.
Monday, October 07, 2024
Friday, October 04, 2024
Pointing Out Fallacies Isn’t Revenge — It’s Necessary for Progress !
Some supporters of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) may feel personally attacked when their party's missteps are highlighted, but this isn’t about revenge.
It’s about truth and accountability.
The JVP is not part of the solution to our country's problems, largely because of their controversial history.
Their attempt to overthrow a democratically elected government during the 1971 uprising resulted in the deaths of thousands and significant property damage.
While some may romanticize this as a class struggle, I see it more as a caste struggle.
Just look at the backgrounds of the first 20 JVP members who were brought before the courts.
Moreover, the JVP's history is tainted by its opportunism.
They've propped up three corrupt regimes in exchange for positions and favours.
While the exact amounts of money that changed hands are known to only a few, businessman Dudley Sirisena recently hinted at such dealings.
So, if anyone believes the JVP can transform this country into a utopia, they should think again.
No country has ever achieved prosperity through Marxist economic policies.
The nations that have abandoned Marxism in favour of a free-market economy have proven beyond a doubt that it’s the better system.
Marxism, on the other hand, is a failed ideology.
We all want the best for this country.
But how do we achieve that?
The answer lies in individual reform.
Take a look at the state of our roads, for instance.
Despite the presence of countless cars, buses, and three-wheelers proclaiming support for AKD, has anyone seen any real improvement in the quality of life?
We’re too focused on blaming politicians when, in reality, we often use them for personal gain, only to criticize them when they fail to meet our expectations.
If we want change, we need to stop using the backdoor and let meritocracy prevail.
Looking at the political landscape, the raw numbers speak for themselves.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) got 42, Sajith Premadasa (SP) secured 37, and Ranil Wickremesinghe (RW) garnered 12.
If RW and SP unite, the National People's Power (NPP) winning a majority is nothing more than a pipe dream.
They will likely find themselves where they belong, in the opposition.
And with no real mandate in Parliament, AKD will face a tough task ahead.
It’s about truth and accountability.
The JVP is not part of the solution to our country's problems, largely because of their controversial history.
Their attempt to overthrow a democratically elected government during the 1971 uprising resulted in the deaths of thousands and significant property damage.
While some may romanticize this as a class struggle, I see it more as a caste struggle.
Just look at the backgrounds of the first 20 JVP members who were brought before the courts.
Moreover, the JVP's history is tainted by its opportunism.
They've propped up three corrupt regimes in exchange for positions and favours.
While the exact amounts of money that changed hands are known to only a few, businessman Dudley Sirisena recently hinted at such dealings.
So, if anyone believes the JVP can transform this country into a utopia, they should think again.
No country has ever achieved prosperity through Marxist economic policies.
The nations that have abandoned Marxism in favour of a free-market economy have proven beyond a doubt that it’s the better system.
Marxism, on the other hand, is a failed ideology.
We all want the best for this country.
But how do we achieve that?
The answer lies in individual reform.
Take a look at the state of our roads, for instance.
Despite the presence of countless cars, buses, and three-wheelers proclaiming support for AKD, has anyone seen any real improvement in the quality of life?
We’re too focused on blaming politicians when, in reality, we often use them for personal gain, only to criticize them when they fail to meet our expectations.
If we want change, we need to stop using the backdoor and let meritocracy prevail.
Looking at the political landscape, the raw numbers speak for themselves.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) got 42, Sajith Premadasa (SP) secured 37, and Ranil Wickremesinghe (RW) garnered 12.
If RW and SP unite, the National People's Power (NPP) winning a majority is nothing more than a pipe dream.
They will likely find themselves where they belong, in the opposition.
And with no real mandate in Parliament, AKD will face a tough task ahead.
Tuesday, October 01, 2024
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