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OXFORD COLLEGE OF BUSINESS POWERS 147th BATTLE OF THE BLUES 2026-by Sunil Thenabadu
147 Years of Rivalry: Oxford College of Business Powers the Battle of the Blues 2026
Oxford College of Business (OCB) has been named the Platinum Sponsor of the 147th Battle of the Blues, reinforcing its commitment to youth development and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and enduring school cricket rivalries.
The historic three day encounter between Royal College, Colombo and S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia is scheduled to take place on 12th, 13th and 14th March 2026 at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Grounds, Colombo.
The historic three day encounter between Royal College, Colombo and S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia is scheduled to take place on 12th, 13th and 14th March 2026 at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Grounds, Colombo.
Recognized as one of the oldest uninterrupted school cricket matches in the world, the Battle of the Blues now enters its 147th year, continuing to command national attention and drawing thousands of past pupils, students and cricket enthusiasts.
In addition, the much anticipated 49th Mustangs Trophy 50 over encounter will be played as a day-night match on 28th March 2026, also at the SSC Grounds, further elevating the excitement surrounding this year’s Royal–Thomian season.
A Partnership Rooted in Heritage and Excellence
Oxford College of Business stated that the sponsorship represents a powerful convergence of education, heritage and sporting excellence aligning the institution with a platform that has shaped generations of Sri Lankan cricketers, professionals and national leaders.
Commenting on the partnership, Malindu Ranasinghe, Director/CEO of Oxford College of Business, said the Battle of the Blues goes far beyond cricket.
“The Battle of the Blues is more than a cricket match — it is a national tradition that represents character, leadership and the pursuit of excellence. As Platinum Sponsor of the 147th encounter, Oxford College of Business is proud to stand with two institutions that have shaped some of Sri Lanka’s finest leaders and sportsmen. We believe in supporting platforms that build character as much as competence,” he said.
Enhancing the Royal–Thomian Experience
Enhancing the Royal–Thomian Experience
According to Oxford College of Business, the sponsorship will contribute towards enhancing fan engagement, on ground experiences and digital coverage of the three day encounter, while creating greater visibility for young cricketers competing on one of the country’s most prestigious school sporting stages.
The institution also plans to introduce student engagement initiatives, youth development programs and knowledge partnerships linked to the event bridging sport with leadership development, career readiness and higher education opportunities.
Investing in the Next Generation
Oxford College of Business noted that its involvement in the 147th Battle of the Blues reflects its broader commitment to community engagement and nation building, supporting platforms that inspire ambition, teamwork and excellence among Sri Lanka’s next generation.As anticipation builds for 12th to 14th March 2026, followed by the Mustangs Trophy on 28th March 2026, the Royal–Thomian season once again promises to capture the spirit of tradition, rivalry and sporting pride now strengthened by OCB’s Platinum partnership.
