One of the grandest spectacles in Sri Lankan school cricket returns again as S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, faces their arch-rivals Royal College, Colombo, in the 146th Battle of the Blues encounter on March 6, 7 and 8 at the Sinhalese Sports Club Grounds (SSC), Colombo.
The much-anticipated Mustangs Trophy one-day encounter will take centre stage on March 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium. The Battle of the Blues is not just a cricket match, but an institution itself – a story of competition and brotherhood that has endured for nearly 150 years, contributing immensely to the game of cricket – the heartbeat of the islanders.
Royalists and Thomians, both past and present, in their iconic blue, gold, and black, will again gather to celebrate their schools’ rich heritage. The pavilion will roar, the flags will wave, and the songs of tradition will echo across the SSC as schoolboys, old boys, and cricket lovers from around the world unite in the spirit of the game.
This encounter, often referred to as Sri Lanka’s very own ‘Big Match’, has witnessed some of the finest cricketers take centre stage before rising to national and international acclaim.
Powering this iconic battle again is Dialog Axiata PLC, a steadfast patron of Sri Lankan school cricket.
With an enduring commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering the next generation of cricketing greats, the company’s partnership ensures that the legacy of the Battle of the Blues remains stronger than ever.
“The Battle of the Blues is more than a mere cricket match; it is a legacy that unites generations of Royalists and Thomians in an enduring spirit of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and tradition. This historic encounter continues to serve as a platform for young cricketers to hone their skills and embody the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that define our schools.
We deeply appreciate Dialog Axiata’s support in elevating this event and ensuring that its legacy remains strong for years to come,” Royal College and S. Thomas’ College said in a joint statement.
Navin Peiris, Group Chief Officer, Dialog Enterprise, said, “At Dialog, we are incredibly proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the Battle of the Blues, one of the most iconic events in Sri Lanka’s school cricketing calendar.”