60th Battle of the Brothers

The 60th edition of the Battle of the Brothers, the historic annual cricket encounter between Isipathana College and Thurstan College, was a celebration of spo…

Role: Host · Feb 2023 · SSC, Colombo · Organiser: Isipathana College & Thurstan College

The 60th edition of the Battle of the Brothers, the historic annual cricket encounter between Isipathana College and Thurstan College, was a celebration of sporting tradition, school pride and the enduring brotherhood between two of Colombo's leading educational institutions.

Held on 24 and 25 February 2023 at the iconic Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Grounds, Colombo, the milestone encounter brought together generations of students, old boys, supporters and cricket enthusiasts to witness one of Sri Lanka's most cherished school cricket rivalries.

Having first commenced in 1964, the Battle of the Brothers has grown into an institution in Sri Lankan school cricket, with the two schools competing for the prestigious Blackham Wijewardene Memorial Trophy. The 60th encounter continued this proud tradition, delivering two days of competitive cricket that ultimately concluded in a draw, with Isipathana securing a first-innings lead.

Serving as the host of the post-match presentation ceremony, Saad Mazhar had the honour of bringing the occasion to a close, recognising the performances and efforts of both teams and congratulating the players on a hard-fought encounter. It was an opportunity to celebrate not only the sporting achievements on the field but also the camaraderie, sportsmanship and mutual respect that have defined this historic rivalry for six decades.

Being part of a milestone edition of such a longstanding school sporting tradition was a memorable experience, celebrating the spirit of competition and the brotherhood that extends far beyond the boundary ropes.

Highlights

  • Hosted the post-match presentation ceremony of the 60th Battle of the Brothers.
  • Featured the historic 60th encounter between Isipathana College and Thurstan College.
  • Held at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Grounds, Colombo, on 24 - 25 February 2023.
  • Celebrated six decades of one of Sri Lanka's most iconic inter-school cricket rivalries.
  • Witnessed Isipathana College secure a first-innings lead, with the match ending in a draw.
  • Celebrated the sporting traditions, camaraderie and sportsmanship shared by the two schools.

Photos

Saad Mazhar hosting 60th Battle of the Brothers, Isipathana College & Thurstan College, SSC, Colombo
Saad Mazhar hosting 60th Battle of the Brothers, Isipathana College & Thurstan College, SSC, Colombo (photo 2)
Saad Mazhar hosting 60th Battle of the Brothers, Isipathana College & Thurstan College, SSC, Colombo (photo 3)
Saad Mazhar hosting 60th Battle of the Brothers, Isipathana College & Thurstan College, SSC, Colombo (photo 4)
Saad Mazhar hosting 60th Battle of the Brothers, Isipathana College & Thurstan College, SSC, Colombo (photo 5)

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