By Marlon Dale Ferreira
In a classic showdown for the ages, the Royal College Old Boys Association of Northern California (RCOBANA) pulled off a sensational four-run victory against the S. Thomas’ College Old Boys of California (TAC) in their annual cricket big match held at Woodley Park last Saturday. The nerve-tingling encounter had everything: brilliant batting, resilient bowling, and dramatic moments that kept the crowd on edge till the very last ball.
Thotuwilage Shines Bright for the Royalists
Amidst perfect cricketing conditions, the Royalists, invited to bat first by Thomian skipper Vishan De Mel, posted an impressive 191 for 7 in their allotted 30 overs. The innings revolved around a breathtaking century by Player of the Match Malinda Thotuwilage, who smashed an unbeaten 109 off 90 balls, peppered with 13 fours and a towering six.
Thotuwilage, opening the innings with Peshan Wedanaarachchi (26), gave the Royalists a solid foundation with a much-needed 46-run partnership in just seven overs. However, the momentum shifted as the Thomians, with persistent line-and-length bowling, triggered a middle-order collapse, reducing the Royalists to 115 for 5 by the 20th over. Just when it seemed the innings might unravel, Danushka Weragoda stepped in to steady the ship. His crucial 49-run partnership with Thotuwilage not only stabilized the innings but also allowed the centurion to shift gears in the death overs, pushing the Royalists to a competitive total.
For the Thomians, young Vinuk Ubayasiri, a mere 13 year old, stole the show with the ball. Bowling with precision on a slow Woodley pitch, he bagged 3 for 37 in his six overs, which included an incredible 17 dot balls. Incidentally, Vinuk is the son of former Thomian rugby star Pujitha Ubayasiri, who famously wore the Number 13 jersey in 1985 and 1986.
Thomians Fall Agonizingly Short
The Thomian chase mirrored the Royalists’ innings, with early breakthroughs unsettling their top order. Openers John Lewis and Naveen Peiris, along with No. 3 bat Chethaka Edirimuni, stroked a few stylish boundaries but couldn’t capitalize, leaving the team teetering at 70 for 4.
However, a brilliant 72-run partnership between skipper Vishan De Mel and Lakshan Liyanage breathed life into the chase. Liyanage’s dazzling run-a-ball 36 included a glorious six but ended in heartbreak when he was stumped attempting another big hit.
De Mel, anchoring the innings under immense pressure, fell for a well-made 63 made off 61 balls inclusive of four boundaries when his lofted cover drive was spectacularly held by Thotuwilage at extra cover off Dasith Warawita. With 38 runs needed off 32 balls and five wickets in hand, the Thomians faltered, losing four quick wickets under relentless Royalist pressure.
Last year’s Thomian skipper, Shammika Rodrigo, gave his side hope with a towering six off Thotuwilage in the penultimate over. However, needing 10 runs off the final over, Rodrigo’s runner was tragically run out at the non-striker’s end, sealing a dramatic victory for the Royalists.
Celebrations and Legacy
The jubilant Royalists celebrated their hard-earned victory, bringing the trophy home amidst loud cheers and camaraderie. RCOBANA President Rohan Sourjah expressed his delight, as the Royalists once again upheld their storied tradition of fighting till the end.
The game’s growing popularity was underscored by a special message from STC Warden Rev. Marc Billimoria, who sent heartfelt wishes to both teams:
“Greetings Thomians and Royalists meeting for the annual encounter at Woodley Park. Hope you have a great day of cricket and camaraderie that celebrates the rich Royal-Thomian tradition and heritage. Remember our common values and the words of a former Principal of Royal: ‘There can never be a S. Thomas’ without Royal and a Royal without S. Thomas.’ Nothing should result in unfriendly rivalry. Peace and blessings to all. Probably for the last time as Warden of STC—yours ever, Marc B.”
The game served as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Royal-Thomian rivalry, proving once again that cricket is not just a sport but a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and friendly competition.
