Long-time Sri Lanka fan Uncle Percy passes away: From Sanath Jayasuriya to Kumar Sangakkara, cricket fraternity pays tribute

Abeysekara, who was fondly referred by many including the Sri Lankan players as Uncle Percy, was a regular feature of home games in Sri Lanka.

Former Sri Lankan captains Sanath Jayasuriya and Kumar Sangakkara took to their social media to pay tribute to Abeysekara.

It is with great sadness that I heard our beloved Uncle Percy has met his maker. You were the first superfan and for all of us you will always be special RIP

— Sanath Jayasuriya (@Sanath07) October 30, 2023

“It is with great sadness that I heard our beloved Uncle Percy has met his maker. You were the first superfan and for all of us you will always be special,” wrote Jayasuriya.

From my debut till my last game Uncle Percy was a constant. His contribution to the game in Sri Lanka stands equal to any of the players that have worn the shirt. His energy, his passion, knowledge and rhyme will be sorely missed. Rest in peace Uncle Percy https://t.co/0bR93rTBg0

— Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) October 30, 2023

“From my debut till my last game Uncle Percy was a constant. His contribution to the game in Sri Lanka stands equal to any of the players that have worn the shirt. His energy, his passion, knowledge and rhyme will be sorely missed,” wrote Sangakkara.

RIP Percy uncle .. it’s the fans who makes this game special .. and u were a true fan of Sri Lankan cricket team .. also very warm towards us too.. we will miss you 🙏 condolences to family https://t.co/gorcw6LeA4

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) October 30, 2023

Former India players Harbhajan Singh and Irfan Pathan also paid their respects on Twitter.

My condolences to the family of UNCLE PERCY. Srilankan cricket’s biggest fan is no more. If Srilanka lost or won, He was always happy. Indian team had lot of respect towards him. pic.twitter.com/HCp3c9ocN8

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 30, 2023

“My condolences to the family of Uncle Percy. Sri Lankan cricket’s biggest fan is no more. If Sri Lanka lost or won, He was always happy. Indian team had lot of respect towards him,” wrote Pathan.

The Board for Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) also posted a statement on Abeysekara. “Percy Abeysekera was a bundle of energy, lighting up every moment on the field with his constant cheering. He shared a deep bond with Indian cricketers and developed a strong connect every time Team India toured Sri Lanka. His presence will be dearly missed.”

Coincidentally, Abeysekera’s passing came on the day of Sri Lanka playing at the 2023 ODI World Cup – a game they lost by seven wickets to Afghanistan.