Traditional rivals Royal College and Wesley College commenced their battle for the Frank Gunasekera Shield today at the SSC in the second oldest rivalry in Sri Lankan school cricket. The 124th encounter was kicked off with Royal skipper Helitha Vithanage winning the toss and electing to bat first.
Heavy overnight showers delayed play while gloomy clouds were covering the grounds later on throughout the day. Early wickets by Senal Dangalle gave a short scare but Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Helitha Vithanage commenced to revive Royal, reaching 98/3 at lunch.
Royal vs Wesley – The Second Oldest Rivalry in the Island
t is the second oldest inter-school cricket encounter in the island where two prestigious institutions, Royal…
Pasindu reached his half ton by lunch while the skipper remained on 28. The pair continued to dominate proceedings, where Helitha displayed his form by reaching his half century. Pasindu throttled himself to his first century for the season, a timely ascent for the big match hero from last year.
When dad light halted play after tea, Royal remained on 210/4.
Chief Scores
Royal College, Colombo 1st innings – 210/4 (58 overs) Pasindu Sooriyabandara 108*, Helitha Vithanage 52, Thevindu Senarathne 33*, Senal Dangalla 3 for 30
