Tissera - The Tea Taster, Cricketer and Manager
'Deshabandu' Michael Tissera who turns 86 years today, didn't only taste tea but has also led Ceylon in the Pre-Test Era, famously tasting victory on Indian soil in 1965
Among the many legends in the pre-Test era, Michael Tissera's name stands out for his contribution to Sri Lanka Cricket. He played many roles as Captain, Chairman of Selectors, a one time Manager and is also a known name with Ceylon Tea!
Born on a day like this in 1939, he was educated at S.Thomas' College Mt. Lavinia where he had the privilege to play for the Royal-Thomian at the age of 14 and captained the team in 1957. A multi-faceted personality from his school days, he not only excelled in other sports like Hockey, Tennis and Athletics but was also one of the starting members of the Thomian Rugby team in 1955!
Young Michael Tissera standing 4th from the right with the first STC rugby team in 1955 (alongside a few other future First Class Cricketers for Ceylon)
Ceylon's First Win against a Test Nation
Finishing his school cricket career as the Thomian cricket captain in 1958, he made his First Class debut in the Gopalan Trophy that same year as one of the youngest members of the team, playing for the NCC.
It was in 1965 when Ceylon who were yet to gain Test status, won against a Test playing nation for the first time and it wouldn't have been possible if not for the bold decision he made as the captain with a day to play.
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