Historic rivalry resumes: Dialog powers 41st ‘Battle of the Rocks’ this weekend

Saturday, 29 March 2025 01:17 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The much-anticipated 41st ‘Battle of the Rocks’ between two cricketing powerhouses in the North Western Province—St. Anne’s College, Kurunegala, and Maliyadeva College, Kurunegala—will take place on 28 and 29 March at the Welagedara Stadium, Kurunegala. Play will commence at 9.30 a.m. on both days. Adding to the excitement, the 28th one-day limited-overs clash between the two schools is scheduled for 30 March at the same venue.

The prestigious encounter is proudly sponsored by Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 connectivity provider, and as the principal sponsor, Dialog has ensured that cricket enthusiasts can catch all the action live on Dialog Television—ThePapare TV HD (Channel 62)—as well as via livestream on ThePapare.com and the Dialog ViU App.

Dialog Axiata Group Chief Marketing Officer Lasantha Theverapperuma, underscored the company’s commitment to school cricket, stating, “The Big Match Season is a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s sporting heritage, and we are thrilled to continue our support for this significant cricketing spectacle, which fosters future champions destined to represent our nation. I extend my heartfelt wishes to both St. Anne’s College and Maliyadeva College for a thrilling encounter.”

The principals of both St. Anne’s College and Maliyadeva College also expressed their gratitude for Dialog’s unwavering support, highlighting the significance of the ‘Battle of the Rocks’ in nurturing young cricketing talent. This year, St. Anne’s College will be led by Buddima Sahan, while Chandupa Abeysingha will captain Maliyadeva College, adding another chapter to the long-standing rivalry between these two institutions.

Over the years, both schools have produced exceptional cricketers, with Maliyadeva College boasting five international players—Ranjith Madurasinghe, Eric Upashantha, Rangana Herath, Jeevantha Kulathunga, and Minod Bhanuka. St. Anne’s College, too, has left its mark with Lanka de Silva among its distinguished cricketing alumni.

The 40th edition of the ‘Battle of the Rocks’ ended in a hard-fought draw last year at the Welagedara Stadium, setting the stage for another enthralling contest in 2024.

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