A Historic Rivalry Resumes: Dialog Powers the 41st 'Battle of the Rocks' This Weekend

Pubudu Aluthgedara, Head of Business - Media and Content, Dialog Axiata PLC handing over the Cheque to the two heads of the schools

The much-anticipated 41st ‘Battle of the Rocks’ between two cricketing powerhouses in the North-Western Province—St. Anne’s College, Kurunegala, and Maliyadeva College, Kurunegala—will take place on 28th and 29th March at the Welagedara Stadium, Kurunegala. Play will commence at 9.30 a.m. on both days. Adding to the excitement, the 28th one-day limited-overs clash between the two schools is scheduled for 30th March at the same venue.

The prestigious encounter is proudly sponsored by Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 connectivity provider, and as the principal sponsor, Dialog has ensured that cricket enthusiasts can catch all the action live on Dialog Television—ThePapare TV HD (Channel 62)—as well as via livestream on ThePapare.com and the Dialog ViU App.

Lasantha Theverapperuma, Group Chief Marketing Officer at Dialog Axiata PLC, underscored the company’s commitment to school cricket, stating, "The Big Match Season is a cornerstone of Sri Lanka's sporting heritage, and we are thrilled to continue our support for this significant cricketing spectacle, which fosters future champions destined to represent our nation. I extend my heartfelt wishes to both St. Anne’s College and Maliyadeva College for a thrilling encounter."

The principals of both St. Anne’s College and Maliyadeva College also expressed their gratitude for Dialog’s unwavering support, highlighting the significance of the ‘Battle of the Rocks’ in nurturing young cricketing talent. This year, St. Anne’s College will be led by Buddima Sahan, while Chandupa Abeysingha will captain Maliyadeva College, adding another chapter to the long-standing rivalry between these two institutions.

Over the years, both schools have produced exceptional cricketers, with Maliyadeva College boasting five international players—Ranjith Madurasinghe, Eric Upashantha, Rangana Herath, Jeevantha Kulathunga, and Minod Bhanuka. St. Anne’s College, too, has left its mark with Lanka de Silva among its distinguished cricketing alumni.

The 40th edition of the ‘Battle of the Rocks’ ended in a hard-fought draw last year at the Welagedara Stadium, setting the stage for another enthralling contest in 2024.

Dialog is the proud sponsor of the National Cricket, Volleyball, Netball, and Esports teams. Dialog is also the primary sponsor of the Sri Lanka Golf Open and Paralympic sports by powering the National Para Games and the Sri Lankan contingent to the World Paralympic Games. Furthermore, in line with its commitment to empowering the champions of tomorrow, the company continues to support the President’s Gold Cup Volleyball, National Junior and Senior Netball tournaments, and School Rugby.