A historic cricket match that has been a symbol of unity and sportsmanship among Sri Lankan cricket enthusiasts in the United Kingdom reached a significant milestone this weekend. The Annual Cricket Encounter between Richmond College and Mahinda Vidyalaya Alumni UK celebrated its 31st anniversary with a gripping showdown at the Amersham Cricket Club, Buckingham, England, on Saturday, September 9th.
In a match that kept spectators at the edge of their seats, the Richmond College Alumni team emerged victorious, clinching the prestigious ER Wijesuriya Challenge Cup. The Mahinda College Alumni team, batting first, showcased their prowess with a score of 135 runs at the end of 30 overs. However, it was the Richmond College team that stole the show with a remarkable reply, scoring 136 runs in the final over, securing a thrilling win.
The outstanding performance of Vikum Kaludora from Mahinda Vidyalaya, who took 3 wickets for just 6 runs, earned him the title of the Best Bowler of the match. Inshan Hadgie, who contributed significantly with 45 runs and also took 2 crucial wickets, was not only the Best Batsman but also the Man of the Match. His stellar performance earned him the coveted ER de Silva Challenge Trophy.
What makes this match even more special is its eligibility criteria – players must either be alumni of Richmond College or sons of alumni. This year, the event witnessed the participation of cricketing legend Champaka Ramanayake, a former fast bowler and bowling coach of the Sri Lankan team, alongside his son Sandesh Ramanayake, a popular school cricketer, both representing Richmond College UK OBA team.
This cricketing extravaganza, reminiscent of the historic Richmond vs. Mahinda encounters in Galle, Sri Lanka, which has spanned 118 years, found its way to the picturesque Chiltern Hills, nestled beside Shardeloes Lake in England. The Amersham Cricket Club served as the perfect backdrop for this friendly match, with a large number of Sri Lankans coming together to celebrate their shared love for cricket.
The Annual Cricket Encounter between Richmond College and Mahinda Vidyalaya UK Alumni has not only become a sporting tradition but also a platform for fostering camaraderie and preserving the rich heritage of Sri Lankan cricket. As the 31st anniversary edition came to a close, it left behind memories of spirited competition, outstanding performances, and the enduring bond of cricket.
