NDB Bank Empowers the Nation’s Future Cricketing Leaders in Partnership with the 94th Battle of the Maroons

NDB Bank proudly takes its place as the official banking partner for the much-anticipated 94th Battle of the Maroons, the annual cricket encounter between two illustrious schools, Ananda and Nalanda Colleges. This thrilling event is scheduled to unfold at the SSC grounds on March 2–3, not only symbolising a rich history of cricketing excellence but also underscoring NDB’s commitment to empowering the next generation of cricketer leaders.

As the official banking partner, NDB Bank is delighted to contribute to the legacy of the Battle of the Maroons, supporting the spirit of healthy competition and sportsmanship. The Late Dr. N. M. Perera Memorial Challenge Trophy will be at stake this year, adding another layer of prestige to this historic cricket clash.

Ananda College, led by Truth Gimshan with an impressive record of 492 runs in 9 matches this season, including two fifties and a century, will face off against the Nalanda College team, captained by the formidable Sajith Withanage, who has taken 15 wickets in 7 matches, including an outstanding performance of 5 wickets for 48 runs.

With 12 wins in the history of the Annual Cricket Encounter, Ananda College holds the lead over Nalanda College, which has secured victory in 7 matches. The 94th Battle of the Maroons promises to be a fiercely contested match as both teams vie for the coveted trophy.

This year's Battle of the Maroons will continue the legacy of producing outstanding cricketers, with the support of international legends such as Arjuna Ranatunga, Sidath Wettamuni, and Marwan Athapattu, who once represented Ananda College. Nalanda College, with its rich history, has contributed to Sri Lanka's cricketing excellence through players like Bandula Warnapura and Kumar Dharmasena.

NDB Bank is honoured to stand alongside these two schools with distinct cricketing heritage, reinforcing its commitment to the development of Sri Lankan cricket, fostering youth talent, and community enrichment. As the 94th Battle of the Maroons unfolds, NDB Bank extends its best wishes to both teams, embracing the spirit of cricket and celebrating the rich legacy of this iconic encounter. Through partnerships such as this, NDB Bank aims to play a pivotal role in fostering the growth of cricket leaders in the nation, who will carry on a torch of excellence in to the future.

NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. The Bank was named the Retail Bank of the Year (Sri Lanka) at Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards 2023 and the Best Corporate Bank 2023 by Asiamoney and also emerged as the Most Awarded Corporate in Sri Lanka in 2022 for the second consecutive year, as per the annual rankings of Sri Lankan publication LMD. The Bank was adjudged the Best Bank in Sri Lanka 2022 by Global Finance USA and Euromoney in their annual best bank awards programmes. Additionally, The Bank was named one of the "Top 50 Best Workplaces in Sri Lanka 2022" by Great Place To Work, USA. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.

Image Caption : Ranga Walpola - NDB Manager Marketing, Dharana Korale Arachchi - NDB Chief Manager Marketing, Darshana Jayasinghe - NDB AVP Marketing, General G. D. H. Kamal Gunaratne - WWV RWP RSP USP ndc psc MPhil / Secretary to the Ministry of Defence / President Old Anandians’ Sport Club / President Old Anandians’ Professional Forum, Mr. D.M. Lal Dissanayake - Principal, Ananda College, Mr. Iran Champika Silva - Principal Nalanda College, Legendary Cricketer – Mahela Jayawardena, Shani Perera - NDB Executive Marketing, Dulani De Silva - NDB Executive Marketing