In the spotlight of the cricketing arena, the Tissa Squad stands poised, a formidable force ready to rewrite history. From left to right in the first row: Ajitha Buddila, Hirusha Nethsara (Captain), Awantha Madhushanka (fielding coach), Shehan Lakshitha (Asst. Coach), Ishan Rodrigo (MIC), A.D.M. Jayatunga (Principal), Iresha Ranaweera (Vice Principal), Rishan Sajith Silva (Head Coach), Krishan Nayan, Ishara Malith (Vice Captain), Ashan Vishwa, Ashan Sirimath. And standing tall in the back row from left: Pasindu Nethranjana, Malsha Kavishan, S. Mihiranga, Sadew Dilshan, Vinusha Malith, Danidu Lakshan, Randika Piyum, Malindu Dilshan, Umantha Akash, Ashen Ishara, Tivin Vishmika, Hesitha Anuhas, Tharuka Samanjith, Hashen Ishara.
This spectacle, known as the 'Battle of Mangosteens,' unfolds under the auspices of Kalutara Vidyalaya, orchestrated by the Old Students Associations of both schools. Dating back to 1949, under the captaincy of Herbert De Silva, this storied encounter has seen Kalutara Vidyalaya dominate the field, claiming victory for eight consecutive years. With 63 matches etched in history, Kalutara Vidyalians boast 22 victories, while Tissa Centralians trail with seven wins, leaving the remaining battles drawn.
Under the watchful gaze of Principal J. A. Dineth Malinda Jayathunga for Tissa Central and Principal Chaturanga Pradeep Leelarathna for Kalutara Vidyalaya, the stage is set for a riveting clash. Led by Yuthika Dilruk (Kalutara Vidyalaya) and Hirusha Nethsara (Tissa Central), the two teams brace for battle, guided by coaches Rishan Sajith Silva (Tissa Central) and Buddhika Madhushanka (Kalutara Vidyalaya).
In the heart of the action stands Hirusha Nethsara, the spark igniting Tissa Central's charge, supported by his Vice Captain Ishara Malith. Nethsara's bat has thundered with 648 runs this season, his finest moment a valiant 72 against St. John’s College, Jaffna. Ishara Malith, the deputy skipper, adds his prowess with 91 runs in traditional matches and a total of 659 runs this season.
Malindu Dilshan, an all-rounder in the Tissa Central squad, boasts 84 wickets, while Hesitha Anuhas shines as the highest run-scorer with 748 runs, including a stellar 113 against Sumangala, Panadura. On the bowling front, Malindu Dilshan's right-arm off-spin adds further firepower with 84 wickets to his name.
As the sun sets on the eve of battle, anticipation hangs thick in the air, promising a spectacle of skill, determination, and the unwavering spirit of cricket.
Amidst the fervor of the cricketing realm, the Vidyalians' banner is held high, guided by the skilled leadership of Yuthika Dilruk. A true maestro of the game, Dilruk's bat has sung melodies of victory, boasting an impressive tally of 3 centuries and 5 half-centuries, amassing a staggering 704 runs. Yet, his brilliance doesn't end there, for with the ball, he has claimed 38 wickets, showcasing an all-round prowess that commands respect.
Beside him stands Vice-Captain Udan Thejaka, a force to be reckoned with in his own right. With an equal tally of 38 wickets, Thejaka's contribution to the Vidyalians' success cannot be understated. Together, Dilruk and Thejaka form a formidable duo, driving their team forward with determination and skill.
As the battleground awaits, the Vidyalians stand ready, fueled by the passion to conquer, and the unwavering resolve to emerge victorious once more. In the annals of cricketing glory, their names shall shine brightly, a testament to the indomitable spirit of Kalutara Vidyalaya.
In the grand saga of cricketing valor, the tale of Kalutara Vidyalaya's triumph stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, skill, and unwavering determination. Led by the exceptional talents of Yuthika Dilruk and supported by the formidable presence of Vice-Captain Udan Thejaka, the Vidyalians have showcased their prowess on both bat and ball, etching their names in the annals of sporting history.
As the final chapter of this saga unfolds, the echoes of their victories resound far and wide, a testament to the resilience and spirit of Kalutara Vidyalaya. With heads held high and hearts filled with pride, they march forward, ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead, knowing that their legacy will endure for generations to come. In victory or defeat, theirs is a story of courage, camaraderie, and the relentless pursuit of excellence on the cricketing field.