If anyone needs a reminder of Ian McNamee's lasting influence on cricket in Canberra, all they have to do is crane their necks upwards to catch a glimpse of the "diamonds in the sky".
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The lights at Manuka Oval have been the catalyst for a host of top-level cricket to be played in Canberra since they were installed in 2013 to mark the biggest change in the venue's then 83-year history.
Former Cricket ACT chairman McNamee was a driving force behind the lights which helped lure the Australian men's team and world-class fixtures to the capital.
Few would have been as rapt as he was when the lights were switched on during the Prime Minister's XI's clash with the West Indies in January of 2013.
The match doubled as a key stage in Ricky Ponting's farewell tour, with the legendary Australian skipper being dismissed for 15 in the home side's gripping 23-run triumph.
James Faulkner collected man of the match honours after he blasted 44 not out (28) and claimed four West Indian scalps with the ball.
But those who were there are more likely to remember the excitement spreading around the boutique venue when an announcement came over the PA system: the lights were being switched on.
Manuka Oval has hosted a vastly increased amount of elite sport since the 47-metre high towers were installed as part of a $5.347 million project jointly funded by the ACT government ($2.847 million) and the federal government ($2.5 million).
"The most significant thing that's happened with ACT cricket and Manuka Oval in particular are those lights," McNamee said.
"The Big Bash final, we wouldn't have had without lights. Three World Cup games, we wouldn't have had without lights. The Australian team wouldn't have played here without lights."
The lights will scarcely be required during Manuka Oval's maiden Test match beginning between Australia and Sri Lanka on Friday.
But they're that good, it might only be a matter of time before the capital secures a day-night Test under the tall towers.
The Canberra Times is counting down 11 magical Manuka Oval cricket moments ahead of an historic Test match between Australia and Sri Lanka on February 1.
Got a magic Manuka memory that should be on the list? Let us know at sport@canberratimes.com.au
THE COUNTDOWN SO FAR
No. 5: Diamonds in the sky light up the city
