Sri Lanka’s longest, in terms of years, cricket encounter between Royal and S. Thomas’ for the 146th year, will be played from March 6 to 8 at the SSC ground. They will be playing for the DS Senanayake Memorial Shield, offered in the name of a former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka.
This encounter, ‘termed as the Battle of the Blues’, has been a highlight in Sri Lanka since 1880, is recorded as the second oldest encounter between any two schools in the world.
Dialog Axiata PLC remains as the principal sponsor for this year as well.
Principal of Royal Chrishantha de Silva (left) Harsha Samaranayake, Vice President of Brand and Media, Navin Peiris, Group Chief Enterprise Officer and Acting Warden of S. Thomas’ Asanka Perera with the sponsorship cheque
(Pix by Ranjith Asanka)
“The Royal-Thomian is one of the most attractive sporting events in Sri Lanka and it’s a special place in my life, having played in it from 1992 to 1994,” said Arjuna Waidyasekara the Co-Chairman of the Royal-Thomian Organizing Committee at the media briefing held at the BMICH on Wednesday (26).
“It was the first Big Match played over three days in Sri Lanka and the first to be played under floodlights in 1994, where I was fortunate to be named Man of the Match. I am honoured to be involved with the event that has rich traditions and significance,” added Waidyasekara.
He also extended gratitude to Dialog Axiata PLC for their unwavering support as the principal sponsor, acknowledging Harsha Samaranayake, Vice President of Brand and Media and Navin Peiris, Group Chief Enterprise Officer, for their contributions.
This is the first time that Asanka Perera the acting Warden of S. Thomas’ College is attending an event of this magnitude in his new role.
“The Royal-Thomian is the Big Match of all Big Matches and I am sure the cricketers will evolve with an exciting display,” he said.
Principal of Royal College Principal, LW Chrishantha de Silva, speaking on the event highlighted the importance of the match for the players.
“They will strive to excel for their schools in this prestigious encounter. I have noted that past cricketers from both schools have succeeded and gone on to play at national level,” said Chrishantha de Silva.
Head Prefect of Royal College Charith Ahangama and Head Prefect of S. Thomas’ College Lekha Gunasekara expressed their excitement and enthusiasm at the upcoming match while addressing the gathering.
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.
