This match will definitely not garner the same anticipation and excitement as the 140th Battle of the Blues three-day encounter did, but the 44th Royal-Thomian annual limited overs cricket encounter played for the Mustangs Trophy on 16th March at SSC Grounds, has its own significance since it is a different brand of cricket and a result inevitable.
After a thumping victory in the ‘big match’ last week, S. Thomas’ College will no doubt come into this clash brimming with confidence as they look to make it a double against their arch-rivals Royal College.
Live – Royal College vs S. Thomas’ College – 44th One Day Encounter
Incidentally, the Thomians are aiming for a magical sixth straight win in the Mustangs Trophy series. They have notched up consecutive wins in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.
The overall win-loss tally currently stands at 21 for S. Thomas’, 20 for Royal, with one tie in the year 2002 and a match shared in 2012.
The Royalists are badly wounded and will have nothing to lose. But, they would want to salvage some pride and take back the Mustangs Trophy after conceding the D.S Senanayake Memorial Shield last Saturday.
Photo Album : Royal College vs S. Thomas’ College | 43rd Mustangs Trophy 2018
In terms of team news, S. Thomas’ will not want to tamper with their winning combination. Kalana Perera, who steered ‘Thora’ to a memorable victory, after 12 years, showed excellent form against Isipathana College in the Singer U19 Limited Overs Tournament – Pre-Quarter Final Play Off during the week as well.
However, there will likely be at least one change from the Thomian camp in order to adapt to the faster fifty-over format of the game.
Visit Hub – MARCH MADNESS
Former Royal captain and star batsman Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who almost denied S. Thomas’ a victory for last weekend, batting with a dislocated shoulder, has been ruled out of this clash.
The Royalists are also hoping to make several changes to their side with plenty of new faces expected to play the limited overs game.
Led by Kavindu Madarasinghe, Royal will find it difficult to come back from last week’s heavy defeat yet will be determined to topple the Thomians captained by Sithara Hapuhinna.
Read More – S. Thomas’ reclaim D. S. Senanayake shield
Watch the live action of the 44th Mustangs Trophy on ThePapare.com, MyTV and Dialog Television Channel No.77.
