Thomian Masters clinch inaugural encounter for Late Ranil Abeynaike Trophy

Masters 50 plus cricket – 25 over game

Monday, 15 February 2021 01:40 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Thomian Masters had the better of the Lanka Cavaliers Masters, beating them by seven wickets with five overs to spare. The game was played at the St. Thomas College Big Club Grounds – Mount Lavinia.

The Late Ranil Abeynaike, who captained the Thomian team in 1973 and adjudged as the

“All-Island Best Bowler” and named in the “Best Team” was a tower of strength to cricket, while he later turned out to be a recognised International Cricket Commentator.

Deepal Ahangama, a live wire of the Thomian Masters, came forward to donate this Trophy with a token of appreciation on behalf of his College mate and team mate in England. Ahangama had the distinction to Captain this inaugural encounter.

Thomians Johann Pieris, who had the honour of captaining the 100th Battle of Blues scored a quick fire 36, and Vijira Wijegunawardena compiled a fine knock of 67 runs while opening the batting with Naresh Adikaram, who scored 32. Ishak Shahabdeen captured four wickets and Nalin Jayathilake had three victims behind the stumps for the Thomian Masters. For the Cavaliers, Varuna Waragoda had a fluent knock of 69 runs. Daya Sirisena, Sirosha Gunathilaka and Krishan Dharmasena captured 1 wicket apiece. Milinda Hettiaarachchi, a former Member of the Board of Governors of the College, spoke on the memories of the Late Ranil Abeyanaike. Amitha Abeynaike, a cricket commentator and the younger brother of the Late Ranil Abeynaike, presented the Trophy to the winners.