"Cricket Extravaganza: Dharmaraja College to Host 22nd Col. Henry Steel Olcott Cricket Tournament
Anticipation is building as the Dharmaraja College Cricket Foundation gears up to organize the 22nd Col. Henry Steel Olcott Cricket tournament, scheduled to take place from December 8 to 10 at the iconic Asgiriya Cricket Stadium in Kandy. This prestigious eight-team competition showcases the cricketing prowess of leading Buddhist schools established by Colonel Olcott in Sri Lanka, including Ananda, Nalanda, Mahinda, Dharmapala, Dharmaraja, Maliyadeva, Rahula, and Dharmasoka.
The three-day event promises a carnival atmosphere, featuring both present boys and old boys competitions. The action-packed schedule kicks off on December 8 with a six-side school cricket tournament among the participating eight schools, culminating in an exciting final. The following day takes center stage with an eight-over-per-side tournament for the past cricketers of these schools, serving as the main attraction.
The inaugural edition of this tournament took place in 1999, hosted by Nalanda College Colombo, and was spearheaded by the late Bandula Warnapura, Sri Lanka's first test skipper. Mahinda College holds the record for the most titles won outright, securing the trophy seven times. Meanwhile, Dharmasoka boasts five victories and has emerged as joint champions three times. Ananda and Maliyadeva each have three wins, Dharmapala secured two victories, and Dharmaraja and Nalanda clinched the title once each.
This year, the tournament is proudly sponsored by Fondre Fat Spread by Pyramid Wilmar (Pvt) Ltd, Nippon Paint, and JN Interiors (Pvt) Ltd. Adding a special touch to the event, several key old cricketers will be felicitated for their contributions, marking a significant moment in the tournament's history. Cricket enthusiasts and supporters can look forward to an exciting celebration of cricketing excellence and camaraderie at the Col. Henry Steel Olcott Cricket Tournament."
"In conclusion, the upcoming 22nd Col. Henry Steel Olcott Cricket Tournament promises to be a thrilling celebration of cricketing excellence and tradition, bringing together top Buddhist schools in Sri Lanka. Hosted by Dharmaraja College at the historic Asgiriya Cricket Stadium, the event not only showcases the skills of present-day players but also honors the legacy of past cricketers.
With a rich history dating back to its inaugural edition in 1999, the tournament has become a symbol of sportsmanship and competitive spirit among schools such as Ananda, Nalanda, Mahinda, Dharmapala, Dharmaraja, Maliyadeva, Rahula, and Dharmasoka. As the cricketing carnival unfolds over three days, featuring both school and old boys competitions, the atmosphere is set to be electric.
This year's sponsors, Fondre Fat Spread by Pyramid Wilmar (Pvt) Ltd, Nippon Paint, and JN Interiors (Pvt) Ltd, contribute to the success of the tournament, highlighting the support from the community and corporate partners. The decision to felicitate key old cricketers adds a special touch, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the sport.
Cricket enthusiasts and fans alike can anticipate an event filled with excitement, camaraderie, and the spirit of competition. The Col. Henry Steel Olcott Cricket Tournament stands as a testament to the enduring passion for cricket in Sri Lanka, fostering a sense of pride and unity among the participating schools and their communities."