Thomian Run Machine Goonewardena’s Classy Century (119) Keeps Thomians Alive -

146th Battle of the Blues (Day 2)

By Marlon Dale Ferreira

A fighting century from Dineth Goonewardena (119) ensured that Royal College’s dreams of a swift victory in the 146th Battle of the Blues were put on hold, as S. Thomas’ College posted a first-innings total of 302, narrowly trailing Royal’s 319 for 7 declared at the SSC ground in Colombo on Friday.

At one stage, Royal looked set to dictate terms, reducing S. Thomas’ to 204 for 7. However, Goonewardena stood firm, dragging his team out of trouble and becoming the first Thomian in nine years to score a century in the big match. His innings not only rescued his team from a precarious position but also denied Royal the opportunity to press home their advantage on day two.

Goonewardena and Dias Turn the Tide

With the Thomian batting lineup in disarray, it all came down to Goonewardena’s grit and resilience to steer his side through rough waters. His century was far from smooth sailing, as he nervously approached the three-figure mark, nearly running himself out while attempting a risky single on 98. A few moments later, he scrambled through for a single, finally sealing his century to the delight of the Thomian camp.

Partnering with skipper Kavindu Dias, Goonewardena stitched together the most crucial stand of the innings—an 80-run partnership for the eighth wicket that blunted Royal’s attack and turned the tide in Thomian favor. Royal’s frustrations were compounded when they dropped Dias on 17, with Ramiru Perera putting down a straightforward chance at mid-on off the bowling of Sooriyaarachie, who toiled through 18 wicketless overs on a batting-friendly surface.

Dias played the perfect supporting role, remaining not out on 37 off 100 balls with five boundaries, ensuring the Thomians inched closer to Royal’s first-innings total.

Goonewardena’s Classy Knock Ends in an Anti-Climax

Goonewardena wasn’t done after reaching his century—he continued his assault, driving the first ball of a new over from Sooriyaarachie crisply through cover for four. He then launched a full toss from Perera for a massive six over the bowler’s head, looking set to extend his innings further. However, in an unexpected turn of events, he gently chipped the very next delivery straight into Perera’s hands, bringing his sublime knock to an abrupt end.

His 119-run innings off 165 balls, which included 17 fours and a six, was the backbone of the Thomian innings and ultimately prevented a batting collapse.

Royal Left to Rue Missed Opportunities

Despite Goonewardena’s brilliance, Royal still had their chances, but lapses in the field and inconsistent bowling let them down. Ramiru Perera, however, ensured Royal still had something to cheer about, cleaning up the tail to finish with a five-wicket haul.

Earlier in the innings, opener Avinash Fernando provided a solid foundation, making a composed 50 before the middle order crumbled.

What’s Next?

With both teams producing strong first-innings totals, the stage is now set for an intriguing battle on day three. The Royalists will look to take control, while the Thomians, buoyed by Goonewardena’s century, will be keen to push for a result in what promises to be a thrilling contest.