146th Royal-Thomian kicks off on March 6

The 146th Battle of the Blues, the traditional three-day cricket encounter between Royal College Colombo and S. Thomas’ College Mount Lavinia, will take place from March 6 to 8 at the Sinhalese Sports Club Grounds in Colombo for the prestigious DS Senanayake Memorial Shield.

Dialog Axiata PLC will continue as the main sponsor for this iconic Big Match, which has been the highlight of Sri Lankan school cricket since 1880 and is the second oldest school cricket match in the world.

At a press conference held at the BMICH on Wednesday, Arjuna Waidyasekara, Co-Chairman of the Royal-Thomian Organizing Committee,said it is a honour to be involved with the event, emphasizing the rich history and significance of the match.

“The Royal-Thomian is one of the biggest sporting events in Sri Lanka, and it’s a special place in my life, having played in it from 1992 to 1994,” said Waidyasekara. “It was the first Big Match played over three days in Sri Lanka from 1979 and the first to be played under floodlights in 1994, where I was fortunate to be named Man of the Match.having top scored with 54

He also extended gratitude to Dialog Axiata PLC for their unwavering support as the principle sponsor, acknowledging Harsha Samaranayake, Vice President of Brand and Media, and Navin Peiris, Group Chief Enterprise Officer, for their contributions.

The Acting Warden of S. Thomas’ College, Asanka Perera, shared his excitement about attending the event for the first time in his new role. “The Royal-Thomian is the Big Match of all Big Matches, and I am sure the cricketers will put on an exciting display,” he said.

Royal College Principal, L.W. Krishantha Perera, also spoke, highlighting the importance of the match for the players, who strive to represent their schools in the prestigious event. He also noted the success of past cricketers from both schools, many of whom have gone on to play at the national level.

Head Prefect of Royal College, Charith Ahangama, and Head Prefect of S. Thomas’ College, Lekha Gunasekara, also addressed the gathering, expressing their enthusiasm for the upcoming match.

In addition to Dialog Axiata PLC, several other sponsors, including Food and Beverage partner John Keells Holdings and clothing partner MAS Holdings, are supporting the event. (SJ)

Source:Daily News