142nd Battle of the Blues: Royal hold the edge

By Shamseer Jaleel

The 142nd Battle of the Blues encounter between the Royal College and S. Thomas’ College will take place at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) ground from 28 October (today) till 30 October. 

Unlike other years, no spectators will be allowed to witness this encounter but live coverage through TV network will keep all updated. Earlier this event was to take place in Hambantota later postponed twice in April and September 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic around the country.

PCR tests have been conducted and all players and officials moved into a bio-bubble before competing in this event. 

Royal hold the edge with seven senior players under their belt with national youth cap, Ahan Wickremasinghe leading the outfit. Thomians too are no pushovers though fielding many newcomers in their first year. They will be led by Shalin de Mel.

Royal this season played against St. Peter’s, St. Joseph’s, Ananda, Wesley and Trinity. Skipper Ahan Wickremasinghe, Dasis Manchanayake and Sadish Rajapakse are the leading batsmen in their outfit. In the bowling department Gishan Balasooriya and Prashan Kalhara lead the way in their five matches played so far this season.

Meanwhile the Thomians played against St. John’s Jaffna, Wesley, Ananda, St. Joseph’s and St. Peter’s. Ryan Fernando, skipper Sahlin de Mel and Yasiru Rodrigo are the leading batsmen who scored this season. In the bowling department Manith Perera, Anuk Palihawadena and Yasiru Rodrigo lead the way.

Approval has been granted to play behind closed doors and match officials to follow all COVID-19 protocols and health guidelines of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) which will regulate playing within the Bio Secure Environment (BSE) as per the Health Ministry.