by Hafiz Marikar in Kandy
The famous Trinity College sportsman S. B. Pilapitiya is no more. He passed away a few days back in Colombo. His funeral took place on Saturday, at Kanatte.

Pilapitiya was one of the finest ruggerites and cricketers to come out of Trinity College in the mid 40s.

He was a fine opening batsman. According to the Mayor of Kandy Harindra Dunuwille, Pilapitiya and Frank Sirimanne were rated as the best opening pair produced by Trinity College. These two opened in 1946.

S.B. played cricket for Trinity with players like A. P. Fernando, C. N. Shockman, Frank R. Sirimanne, G. A. A. Yatawara, M. Wandu-ragala, Lakshman Jayakody. His highest at cricket was 66 against Wesley in 1945. In 1946 he scored 54 vs Wesley, 54 and 50 vs Royal, and in 1947, 61 vs Wesley.

His pet game was rugby. He started his rugby career in 1943 and played along with Malcom Wright, T. B. Werapitiya, H. L. Amstrong, E. R. L. Fernando, M. Naganathan, R. G. Sourjah. He won his colours in 1943, and led the side in 1946. That year they lost the first Bradby first leg and won the second. In 1944 he won the Rugby Lion along with A. P. Fernando, M. Kagwa, M. Naganathan, R. G. Sourjah and Malcolm Wright.

He played as scrum half. After school he played for Havelocks SC, Kandy S.C. He led the side in the first Clifford Cup final against CR & FC in 1954. From there he crossed over to Up-Country and played for Uva, Dickoya MCC, Dimbulla A & CC and Up-Country.

He also represented the country in the All India tournament. He also had the privilege of leading the Barbarians XV in the All India tournament.

He ended his rugby career as the President of the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union in 1975-76.

He leaves his wife Padmini and two children Sumith and Ayanthi.