Dialog powers 146th Battle of the Blues – Sri Lanka’s grandest school cricketing spectacle

From left: S. Thomas’ College 1st XI Captain Kavindu Dias, Royal Thomian Joint Match Organising Committee Co-Chairman Ramesh Abeywickrama, Royal College Principal L. W. Krishantha Perera, Dialog Axiata Vice President, Brand and Media Harsha Samaranayake, Dialog Enterprise Group Chief Officer Navin Peiris, S. Thomas’ College Acting Warden Asanka Perera, S.Thomas’ College Joint Match Organising Committee Co-Chairman Arjuna Waidyasekera, and Royal College 1st XI Captain Ramiru Perera 

The grandest spectacle in Sri Lankan school cricket returns once again as S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, faces their arch-rivals Royal College, Colombo, in the 146th Battle of the Blues encounter on 6, 7, and 8 March 2025 at the hallowed Sinhalese Sports Club Grounds (SSC), Colombo.

Reverberating with rich traditions, passion, and unparalleled history, this legendary encounter stands as the second-longest uninterrupted school cricket series in the world, a testament to the unwavering camaraderie and sporting spirit between two of Colombo’s leading educational institutions. Adding to the grandeur, the much-anticipated Mustangs Trophy one-day encounter will take centre stage on 15 March 2025 at the SSC. 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 once 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 prestigious 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 once again is Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 connectivity provider and 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. Their continued support is not only sponsorship but also an investment in Sri Lanka’s sporting future.

“The Battle of the Blues is more than just a 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 unwavering support in elevating this prestigious event and ensuring that its legacy remains strong for years to come,” Royal College and S. Thomas’ College said in a joint statement.

Commenting on the occasion, Dialog Enterprise Group Chief Officer Navin Peiris 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. Our commitment to supporting school cricket stems from our belief in nurturing young talent and fostering a passion for the game that lasts a lifetime. Through initiatives like the Battle of the Blues and the Mustangs Trophy, we aim to contribute to the development of the next generation of cricketers while preserving the rich traditions of Sri Lankan school cricket. As we power this historic rivalry once again, we remain dedicated to powering the champions of tomorrow.”

Tickets for the 146th Battle of the Blues and the Mustangs Trophy will be available for purchase at the Royal College Union and the STCML OBA Secretariat. Given the massive following and the electrifying atmosphere that this legendary encounter promises, early booking is highly recommended to secure a seat at Sri Lanka’s grandest school cricketing festival. Join us in celebrating the spirit of cricket, tradition, and sportsmanship at the 146th Battle of the Blues and the Mustangs Trophy match! Dialog Axiata PLC extends an invitation to the public to witness the Royal Thomian encounter with the most advance 5G Ready network in Sri Lanka.

Spectators can also enjoy the action in stunning high definition on ThePapare TV – Channel Number 126, on Dialog Television or stream the excitement live via ThePapare.com and the Dialog ViU app. ThePapare’s top-notch live coverage will expand to over 40 schools across the country throughout the season.