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SUNDAY OBSERVER REPORT: PETERITES DETHRONE JOES IN JUGGERNAUT CRUSH

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SUNDAY OBSERVER REPORT: PETERITES DETHRONE JOES IN JUGGERNAUT CRUSH

Posted on 30 June 2018 by admin

Tournament favourites St. Joseph’s College were grounded to a screeching halt by a juggernaut of a Peterite set of forwards that were unstoppable in the Milo Trophy knock-out inter school rugby final under floodlights at the Race Course ground in Colombo yesterday.

Perhaps the Joes did not bargain for such an unbelievable drive by a heavier pack from St. Peter’s College who proved they had what was needed to win a high intensity final with a 22-20 triumph after trailing 5-17 in the first half.

It appeared that the Peterites had woken up from their slumber with the pundits wanting to know by what margin the Joes will eventually win in what was a bonus Battle of the Saints match that marked the first time in history that the two schools met in a major final.

There was only one side that played in the first half as the Joes capitalized on what would have easily been a most lethargic show by the Peterites who could not unleash a single tackle to cripple the opposition that resulted in the defending champions scoring their only two tries without a contest when third row forward Tharindu de Alwis and winger Gemunu Cheitiya crossed the line for tries virtually unchallenged.

Both tries were virtual gifts, scored after the Peterites failed to clear a missed penalty kick from Joes player Santhush Algama followed by full-back Shehan Liyanapathirana failing to collect a high ball from which play-maker Gemunu Cheitiya brushed away three defenders to touch down.

But the Peterites just when all seemed to have been lost, rose to the occasion like a giant to produce rolling maul after rolling maul which the Joes could not counter or sustain for most of the second half.

Peterite prop Julian Charles made merry like never before as he waltzed over the line to score twice and neutralize the Joes into submission for once this season.

Both schools may have much in common but it was one man, the crafty and battle hardened pint-sized scrum half Jason Karunaratne who made an envious difference when he initiated what was to become the match winning try.

Sensing the Joes forwards were kept preoccupied in countering the rolling maul he out-foxed the defence when referee Praneeth Veharanga ordered the ball to be used as he crept through on the blind side like a disturbed serpent to send his unmarked fly-half Kenneth Wimaladasa over the line to score.

Wimaladasa missed converting the previous three tries but he made the most precious kick of the season when he landed the conversion right between the posts to his own try three minutes before the end to send the Peterite supporters into a celebratory frenzy. Winger Shenol Silva also joined the party as another try-scorer. 

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44th Battle of the Saints Limited over match won by St. Joseph's College by 87 runs

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44th Battle of the Saints Limited over match won by St. Joseph’s College by 87 runs

Posted on 03 April 2018 by admin

The Josephian-Peterite limited overs encounter which is the longest running Limited Over encounter in the country and played for the Rev.Fr. Peter A. Pillai trophy was worked off for the 44th consecutive year at the SSC grounds in Colombo on Saturday, March 24, 2018.

 

A solid all-round effort by St. Joseph’s College enabled them to beat arch rival St. Peter’s College by 87 runs in their 44th Battle of the Saints annual limiter overs cricket encounter and win the Fr. Peter Pillai trophy at the SSC ground in Colombo yesterday.

The Joes electing to bat first made 259 in 49.2 overs as Revan Kelley (59), Nipun Sumanasinghe (53) and Dunith Wellalage (37) piled up the runs.

The Peterites got off to a disastrous start losing three wickets for just six runs and never recovered only to be bowled out for 172 as the Daniel duo of Jehan and Ashian grabbed four scalps each. Only Santhush Gunathilake with 49 and Ranmith Jayasena (48) offered some resistance.

Jehan Daniel skipper of St. Joseph’s was adjudicated as man of the match.

St. Joseph’s: 259 in 49.2 overs (Revan Kelly 59, Nipun Sumanasinghe 53, Dunith Wellalage 37, Jehan Daniel 26, Lakshan Gamage 26, Dilesh Perera 19, Shivan Perera 2/32, Santhush Gunathilake 2/44, Mohamed Ameen 2/60)

St.Peter’s: 172 in 38.4 overs (Santhush Gunathilake 49, Ranmith Jayasena 48, Dinith Anjula 25, Jehan Daniel 4/21, Ashian Daniel 4/32)-(YK) 

 

 

The Josephian skipper and Sri Lanka U19 vice captain, Jehan Daniel called correct at the toss and the Josephians batted first on what looked like a good track to bat on. Johanne De Zilva fell early to the left arm spin of Miflal Ameen but experienced campaigners Revan Kelly and Nipun Sumanasinghe resurrected the innings with both batsman making half centuries. Skipper Daniel hit a couple of lusty blows during his short stay but he fell to some canny bowling from Ameen.

The Josephians struggled during the middle overs to gain any momentum but 15 year old Dunith Wellalage gave the innings much needed impetus with a fluent 37, though his dismissal sparked a mini collapse as the Josephians were all-out for 259 after being 237/5. Ameen, Santhush Gunathilaka and Shivan Perera all picked two wickets apiece for the Peterites.

The Peterite run chase got off to a horror start with their top order bar skipper Gunathilaka being dismissed in quick succession as they were reduced to 3/06. Jehan Daniel had his tail up for the Josephians dismissing both right handers with in-swingers to trap them in front while Lakshan Gamage picked up the first wicket to fall.

It was a grand recovery from there onwards for the Peterites through Gunathilaka and Ranmith Jayasena as the duo initially took time before starting to break free as they added 103 runs for the fourth wicket. Then came the most telling point in the match when Jehan Daniel brought himself back into the attack to capture the vital scalp of Jayasena who was unfortunate to be dismissed on 48.

The other Daniel (Ashain) also got into the act as he dismissed the Peterite skipper who was looking well set for a big one to put a halt to the Peterite run chase. The boys from Bambalapitiya never really recovered from there onwards as they eventually folded up for 172 handing a massive 87 run victory to the Josephians.

Ashain Daniel was unfortunate to not pick a five wicket haul but he ended with outstanding figures of 4/32 while captain Jehan Daniel picked up the last wicket to fall to end with a stunning 4/21 as the Josephians recorded a win in the series after 2014.

Jehan Daniel and Ashain Daniel were named man of the match and best bowler respectively while Revan Kelly won the best batsman’s award for his crucial 59. Sulakshana Fernando was named best fielder in the match for his catch and an amazing run out while Santhush Gunathilaka and Ranmith Jayasena won the award for the ‘partnership of the match’.

 

 

 

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44th "Battle of the Saints" limited over encounter on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at SSC grounds

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44th “Battle of the Saints” limited over encounter on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at SSC grounds

Posted on 19 March 2018 by admin

 The limited over "Battle of the Saints" was launched in 1975. The honour of captaining the inaugural game belonged to Dushan Soza (SJC) and Bernard Wijetunga (SPC).Around this time, the 50-over game was gathering momentum throughout the cricketing playing nations. The Josephian-Peterite limited over game was the first amongst schools in Sri Lanka. St. Joseph's College is ahead with 21 wins while the Peterites have won 20 matches including a daring win in 2017.

2018 marks the 44th encounter and the game will be played on Saturday, March 24th at SSC grounds. 

Recap of 43rd Encounter played at SSC Grounds on March 25, 2017.

St. Peter’s College recorded their third successive win against traditional rivals St. Joseph’s College with a 54-run victory in their 43rd annual Limited Overs cricket encounter played at the SSC ground in Colombo today (25). The high-scoring match saw St. Peter’s taking first lease of the wicket were steered by two batting displays by Sulakshana Fernando, who made 90 and Manelker de Silva, an unbeaten 107. 

The Peterites ended up with a formidable score of 311 for 8. 

St. Joseph’s in their run-chase, despite a fine knock of 73 coming from Dineth Madurawala, was bowled out for 257 with three deliveries to spare. 

St. Peter’s 311 for 8 wickets (50) (Sulakshana Fernando 90, Santhush Gunatilleke 31, Lakshina Rodrigo 23, Manelker de Silva 107n.o, Thineth Madurawala 2/22, Nipun Sumanasinghe 2/58) 

St. Joseph’s 257 all out (49.3) (Dineth Madurawala 73, Havin Perera 47, Jehan Daniel 35, Pahan Perera 23, Sachin Silva 3/55, Manelker de Silva 2/23, Santhush Gunatilleke 2/30)

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84th "Battle of the Saints" on March 2nd & 3rd ends in a tame draw

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84th “Battle of the Saints” on March 2nd & 3rd ends in a tame draw

Posted on 04 March 2018 by admin

SJC XI 2018

The 84th "Battle of the Saints" encounter ended in a tame draw, in favour of the underdogs St. Peter's College who had a 49-run lead in the first innings. The Josephians forced the draw by batting through the better part of day-2 and giving their rivals only 9 overs to make 189 runs for a win – an impossible task. At the end of the day Peterites provided entertaining cricket and were 57 for the loss 1-wicket at close of play. It was a disappointing finish from a spectator standpoint. But the Josephians would not have ti any other way.

The match was played before a large crowd of spectators on Friday (March 2nd) and Saturday (March 3rd) at the P. Sara Stadium. Kudos to "ThePapare.Com" powered by Dialog who broadcast the match on both day much to the delight of the Joes and Peterites all over the world. In fact this writer had the distinct pleasure of watching both day's play from Toronto, Canada on a large screen monitor and the clarity of the broadcast was awesome. Well done 'ThePapare', we are grateful for the outstanding service provided to the viewers all over the world. Thank you.

SPC XI 2018

Peterite skipper Santhush Gunathilake won the all important toss and elected to field. A good decision in retrospect. The Josephians went out favourites in this 84th encounter and had a better all-round side compared to the Peterites. A maximum of 60 overs per team in the first innings over has been a mandatory policy adapted by the joint committee many years back. The objective of this decision was to trigger a result in the big match. This did not play into the game as the Josephians were all out in their first innings for 195 in 53.2 overs. Sachin Silva took three wickets for 24 runs and Mohammed Ameen grabbed two wickets for 71 runs.

The Peterites had their rivals struggling for survival in both inningsa. The Petes had the Joes batting in tatters on 68 for 4 before the Josephian captain Jehan Daniel came to their rescue with a quick-fire knock of 93 in only 115 balls that included three boundaries and half a dozen sixes. The right and left arm spin combination of Sachin Silva and Mohamed Ameen who made the early breakthroughs did the damage. Skipper Jehan Daniels led from the front and steered the Joes out of trouble by scoring a blistering 93 runs. Daniels was unfortunate to be caught by the rival skipper Gunathilake attempting a big hit. In reply the Peterites rattled up 244 runs in the mandatory 60 overs with a 49-run lead in the first innings. Shalith Fernando, 58, and Ranmith Jayasena, 55, batted best for the Peterites and ensured that they passed the Josephian first innings total easily. Fernando contributed 58 with six fours and two sixes while Jayasena chipped in with 55 with four fours. Shalith Fernando and Sulakshana Fernando associated in a 91-run stand for the third wicket on the previous day.

The Peterites in their turn helped by half tons by Shalith Fernando and Ranmith Jayasena ended the day in a strong position of 190 for 6. Resuming on day two and with 11 overs of batting left saw the overnight pair Pabasara Herath and Kanishka Maduwantha adding a further 28 runs before being separated with the dismissal of Pabasara who made a valuable 38 runs which had three boundaries and a six.

JOSEPHIAN SKIPPER JEHAN DANIELS WON MAN OF HE MATCH AWARD

The Josephians batting for the second time with a deficit of 49 runs, saw the openers Johanne de Silva and Revan Kelly sharing  43 runs before being separated and they lost another quick wicket for the addition of four runs. Nipun Sumanasinghe and Jehan Fernandopulle added 34 runs for the third wicket and from there on, they lost wickets at regular intervals and the dismissal of skipper Jehan Daniel cheaply saw them falling back and slid to 146 for 7. Dineth Jayakody who remained unbeaten on 55 with four boundaries and a six and Dunith Wellalage who made 44 took them to safety with the duo denying further success for the Peterite bowlers. The pair put on a valuable match saving partnership of 80 runs for the eighth wicket which sealed the game for a draw as the Josephians ended the day on 237 for 8 facing 81 overs.

Like it is done in the past the second innings was a big bore with this time the Joes playing safe to ensure a draw utilizing as many as 83 overs to score 237 for 8 and declare leaving the Peterites to make 189 in 15 overs which even a machine would not have been able to do. In this writer's opinion, the Josephians would have done well to declare their second innings on reaching 200 runs leaving the 152 runs to score in about 20 overs. This would have turned the match into an interesting battle. But the Joes played it safe to record another drab draw.

When the match ended the Peterites reached 57 for 1 in nine overs with Santhush Gunatilleke making 39. And so the big match ended in a tame draw. On the first day Sri Lanka youth player and Joes skipper Jehan Daniel scored 93 with six sixes and made only 24 in the second innings. However, there was little doubt that Daniels was easily the best player on the ground on both sides. He was unfortunate to miss his coveted century by 7 runs but he saved the Josephians from recording a low first innings score. 

AWARDS – 84th BATTLE OF THE SAINTS ENCOUNTER

  • Best Fielder Pabasara Herath – SPC
  • Best Bowler Lakshan Gamage – SJC
  • Best Batsman Shalith Fernando – SPC
  • Best Allrounder Dunith Wellalage – SJC
  • Man of the Match Jehan Daniel – SJC

 

FLASHBACK TO 83rd BATTLE OF THE SAINTS – 2017:

Sri Lanka under 19 cricketer Jehan Daniel played the role of savior to rescue St Joseph’s College from dire straits at 10 for 5 to a respectable 205 on the opening day of the 83rd Battle of the Saints encounter against St Peter’s College at the P Sara Oval yesterday.

By the close the game was evenly poised with St Peter’s replying with 138 for five wickets.

Daniel’s magnificent century saved St. Joseph’s the blushes and enabled them to take the upper hand.

Daniel came to the crease with his side tottering at 10 for 5 after skipper Harin Cooray had won the toss and elected to bat first. However in the first session’s play things go the way the Joes would have planned.

Under 19 player cum Peterite vice-captain and right arm fast bowler Manelker de Silva and his new ball partner Santhush Gunathilake combined together to rip through the batting line up.

Gunathilake ran through the Joes top order by making the early breakthrough in his first two overs when he dismissed openers Cameron Duruge and took the prize wicket of Nipun Sumanasinghe who has scored 1000 runs this season. Manelker De Silva added salt to the wound of the Josephians when he got rid of Dineth Madurawela for one as St. Joseph’s slid to 3 for 3. To make matters worse for the Joes both Thashan Perera and Havin Perera were run out due to brilliant fielding and half the Joes side was out for 10. A sixth wicket partnership of 56 between Daniel and wicket keeper Shevan Fonseka (26) addressed the slump. The stand was ended with another run out of Fonseka following a direct throw from Ranmith Jayasena, son of Panadura SC cricketer Mangala Jayasena.

 

 

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Sachith Silva leads Joes to a historic final

Posted on 23 June 2017 by admin

jOES rUGBY 2017Courtesy: Hisham Hameed – The Pappare – June 7, 2017.

The revamped St. Joseph’s side after a rather average performance in the league, seemed to have got into the right groove at the right time, as they outclassed Dharmaraja College, Kandy by 34 points to 12 in the 1st semi final of the MILO Presidents Trophy Knock out tournament worked off at the Sugathadasa Stadium.

The winners who led 16 – 05 at the breather accumulated their points from 2 goals, a try and 5 penalties while Dharamaja responded with a try in either half, one of which was converted.

The Joes who were the favourites coming into this game did face pockets of resistance from the visitors but accurate goal kicking by their reliable place kicker Sachith Silva saw them keep a safe distance from danger almost throughout the game which also gave them a finals berth for the first time in their rugby history. The boys from Darley Road always looked a threat whenever they entered the opposition half and it took them only four minutes in the game to get things underway. Intervention by the touch judge saw referee Rohan Fernando awarding a penalty for a high tackle and Sachith Silva fired across the 3 pointer from 30 yards out. Silva was called upon to take up the kicking duties yet again in the 10th and 19th minute as the Rajans were penalized for being offside. Silva was successful on both occasions to hand his team a nine point cushion. (SJC 09 – DRCK 00). 

Five minutes later, it was Silva again registering himself on the score sheet cutting the Rajans defence with a lightning break off a set piece move to touch down under the posts. Silva added the extras himself to take his and his teams tally to 16 points. (SJC 16 – DRCK 00)

Dharmaraja who showed patches of promising play never got things going for themselves, unable to retain possession but somehow managed to score a fortunate try against the run of play just before the half hour mark. Having smothered an attempted Josephian box kick inside the Joes red zone the Rajans put enough pressure for the ball to squirt out from the side which second rower E.C Ekanayake took advantage of to score mid right. The conversion attempt by C.Deshapriya only managed to hit the woodwork as the Joes held on to a healthy lead going into the half time interval.

HALF TIME: ST.JOSEPH’S 16 –  DHARMARAJA 05

The resumption saw the Rajanas playing with more confidence and vigour and they were rewarded with an early try in 44th minute of the second half. Center Bhawantha Udangamuwa managed to create space outside him with a storming run to score mid left. Deshapriya made a stunning conversion to bring the game back to life. (SJC 16 – DRCK 12) 

Unfortunately for the visitors it was all the points they would score for the evening as the Josephians took control of the game by the scruff of its neck. Sachith Silva continued from where he left off in the 1st half slotting through and easy 10 meter penalty in the 46th minute. (SJC 19 – DRCK 12). 

Both teams tried to get control of the game, but it was the Josephians who looked the more likely to score with the dangerous backs looking to pounce at any given opportunity. Dharmaraja conceded yet another penalty in 58th minute which Sachith Silva kicked through with ease. (SJC 22 – DRCK 12).

After all the limelight was stolen by Sachith Silva it was time for Chatura Senevirathne to get in on the act. After a few phases by his forwards the ball was sent out to Senevirathne who’s thundering run evading several Dharmaraja defenders to crash over for a brilliant solo effort. Silva complimented his team mate’s try with a stunning conversion. Not resting on their laurels, the Joes struck again almost immediately through skipper Vinul Fernando who added the finishing touches to a brilliant move executed by his backs. Silva’s kick only managed to rebound off the uprights but the game was virtually sealed with more than 12 minutes to go (SJC 34 – DRCK 12). 

With the game wrapped up in the bag Coach Nilfer Ibrahim decided to flush his bench to give them much needed game time. Even though coming close to scoring a few occasions, the Joes just couldn’t add the finishing touches as the game reached its end.

FULL TIME: ST.JOSEPH’S 34 – DHARMARAJA 12

ThePapare.com player of the match – Sachith Silva (St Joseph’s)

Referee: Rohan Fernando

Score break down: St. Joseph’s 34 (16)
Tries: Sachith Silva, Chathura Senevirathne, Vinul Fernando
Conversions: Sachith Silva (2)
Penalties: Sachith Silva (5)

Score break down: Dharmaraja 12 (05)
Tries: E.C Ekanayake, Bhavantha Udangamuwa
Conversions: C Deshapriya (1)

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83rd Battle of the Saints : Centurion Jehan Daniel (124 n.o.) saves St. Joseph’s

Posted on 03 March 2017 by admin

 

Saturday, March 4, 2017.

Indika Welagedara – Courtesy: Daily News.

Jehan Daniel exults after scoring a face-saving century for St Joseph’s College on the first day of the Battle of the Saints cricket match against St Peter’s College at the P Sara Oval yesterday.  Pic by Thilak Perera

Jehan Daniel exults after scoring a face-saving century for St Joseph’s College on the first day of the Battle of the Saints cricket match against St Peter’s College at the P Sara Oval yesterday. Pic by Thilak Perera

 Sri Lanka under 19 cricketer Jehan Daniel played the role of savior to rescue St Joseph’s College from dire straits at 10 for 5 to a respectable 205 on the opening day of the 83rd Battle of the Saints encounter against St Peter’s College at the P Sara Oval yesterday.

By the close the game was evenly poised with St Peter’s replying with 138 for five wickets.

Daniel’s magnificent century saved St. Joseph’s the blushes and enabled them to take the upper hand.

Daniel came to the crease with his side tottering at 10 for 5 after skipper Harin Cooray had won the toss and elected to bat first. However in the first session’s play things go the way the Joes would have planned.

Under 19 player cum Peterite vice-captain and right arm fast bowler Manelker de Silva and his new ball partner Santhush Gunathilake combined together to rip through the batting line up.

Gunathilake ran through the Joes top order by making the early breakthrough in his first two overs when he dismissed openers Cameron Duruge and took the prize wicket of Nipun Sumanasinghe who has scored 1000 runs this season.

Manelker De Silva added salt to the wound of the Josephians when he got rid of Dineth Madurawela for one as St. Joseph’s slid to 3 for 3.

To make matters worse for the Joes both Thashan Perera and Havin Perera were run out due to brilliant fielding and half the Joes side was out for 10.

A sixth wicket partnership of 56 between Daniel and wicket keeper Shevan Fonseka (26) addressed the slump. The stand was ended with another run out of Fonseka following a direct throw from Ranmith Jayasena, son of Panadura SC cricketer Mangala Jayasena.

Daniel and Jehan Fernandopulle son of former Benedictine cricketer Marlon Fernandopulle took the score to 95 before Jehan was run out for 14 by Manelker de Silva’s brilliant fielding.

Daniel counter attacked making use of three dropped chances to score an unbeaten 124 off 116 balls that included 12 boundaries and five sixes. He was involved in a face saving partnership of 93 runs for the eighth wicket with left hander Pahan Perera (25) that saw St. Joseph’s to their final total.

The eighth wicket partnership between the pair broke a 67-year old record for St. Joseph’s of 66 between Adolphus Silva and Milroy Brohier in 1950.

For the Peterites who batted after tea Shalith Fernando their number four batsman hit a fine 47 before being dismissed in the penultimate over of the day. However vice-captain Manelker de Silva hung around for a solid unbeaten 40 by the close. 

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83rd Josephian-Peterite Encounter at Colombo Oval on March 3rd & 4th

Posted on 02 March 2017 by admin

SPC XI 2017SJC XI 2017In Sri Lanka, March madness has set in with a few “big matches” scheduled for the first week-end. The 83rd encounter of the “Battle of the Saints” takes pride of place and will be played at the old familiar Colombo Oval (P. Sara Stadium) on March 3rd & 4th. St. Joseph’s lead the series with 12 wins, last being in 2008 under the captaincy of Ruwantha Fernandopulle. Peterites trail behind with 10 wins including the controversial win last year thanks to a sporting decision by the Josephian Rector, Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel. This writer was at the game last year from start to finish and witnessed first hand extreme behaviour from a group of unruly spectators who disrupted play each time a wicket fell and/or a boundary was scored. The chaos that prevailed deprived the Peterites from earning a deserved victory. After the game ended Fr. Travis in consultation with the Peterite Rector Rev. Fr. Trevor Martin and some seniors from both schools awarded the 82nd encounter to St. Peter’s College, a magnanimous gesture. Let us forget this ever happened and move forward this year to a fair game played in the highest traditions of the “Battle of the Saints” – in a spirit we are used to in the past. After all, we are two brothers of one family!

The squads: St. Peter’s College: Lakshina Rodrigo (Captain), Manelker de Silva, Santhush Gunatilleke, Shalith Fernando, Vinul Gunawardena, Anishka Perera, Ranmith Jayasena, Sulakshan Fernando, Shivan Perera, Prabasara Herath, Nipunaka Fonseka, Chathura Obesekere, Sachin Silva, Dinith Anjula, Laseh Rodrigo, Ravindu Silva, Banuka de Silva, Mohammed Ameen.

St. Joseph’s College: Harin Cooray (Captain), Dario Dassanayake, Revan Kelley, Nipun Sumanasinghe, Dineth Madurawala, Jehan Daniel, Shevon Fonseka, Pahan Perera, Thashan Perera, Havin Perera, Ruchira Ekanayake, Jehan Fernandopulle, Dineth Jayakody, Sachitha Mahindasinhe, Kavindu Jayatissa, Cameron Durage, Lakshan Gamage, Sheran Rassool, Avishka Fernando, Sachitha de Silva.

The two rectors – Rev. Fr. Trevor Martin, Rector of St. Peter’s College and his counterpart at St. Joseph’s College Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel are both strong administrators but open minded and fair in their management style. Both have showed tremendous leadership qualities and inspired the students to respect true values of discipline and education. A week or two back Fr. Trevor Martin had this to say at a media briefing ahead of the “big match”.

By: Upali Obeyesekere

“Winning and losing is all part and parcel of the game, but what is more important is that the game is played in the true spirit of sportsmanship which has been a hallmark of this big match over the years”.

The Josephians are led this year by all-rounder Harin Cooray, son of Hiran Cooray who played for St. Joseph’s College from 1980-1982. Today, Cooray Sr., is best known as the dynamic chairman of Jetwing Hotels, a company founded in 1970 by his late father Mr. Herbert Cooray. The Peterites are led by Lakshina Rodrigo, right-handed batsman who has had a terrific season with the bat. It is important not to have a repeat of last year’s unruly crowd behaviour. The battle lines are drawn and may the best team have the advantage at the end of the day.

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83rd Battle of the Saints: This can be a nailbiter – no quarter given or asked

Posted on 01 March 2017 by admin

By M. Shamil Amit – Courtesy of Sunday Times.

 

 

As it happens every year during the month of March the saints are ready to march on the cricket field for their annual “Battle of the Saints”.  This is the 83rd in the series to be played on March 3 and 4 at the P. Sara Stadium and no doubt with both the teams fielding talented players there is bound to be a close tussle.

The Josephians lead the series with 12 wins with their last win being in 2008 under the leadership of Ruwantha Fernandopulle while the Peterites have ten wins having won the encounter last year under Vinu Mohotti.

In fact it was the sportsmanship of St Joseph’s rector Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel who awarded the win to St Peter’s due to the crowd invasion when the Peterites was on the verge of winning the game.

But the organisers this time out, the joint committee of the two schools are not going to leave any stone unturned and trouble makers beware as no room will be left and stern action will be taken as the relevant officials have been advised to take necessary action.

Both teams this year are unbeaten.  Peterites led by Lakshina Rodrigo have a better record.  After 18 games they have registered five outright wins. They are against St Anthony’s Wattala, Maris Stella, St Mary’s Kegalle, St Sebastian’s Moratuwa and St Benedict’s.

 

Josephians led by Harin Cooray have played 18 matches has been able to win three of them against St Patrick’s Jaffna, Maris Stella and Bandaranayake MV Gampaha.

Nevertheless for any school their traditional encounter is something special and the “Battle of the Saints” is going to be a tussle for supremacy between the two schools.

Let’s also not forget that in most of the matches played in the series have been dominated by the underdogs. This year with both the teams well balanced it will be hard to predict an outcome as the two teams’ posses and are oozing with talented players.

The Josephian batting will revolve around their leading run getter Nipun Sumanasinghe who had the honour of being the first player this season to reach the 1000 runs mark and has made three tons and five half tons.

To support him there is Dineth Madurawala who has made over 800 runs which includes four tons and two half tons and Shevon Fonseka the other player to crack a ton and has scored over 650 runs.

Pahan Perera, Jehan Fernandopulle and Jehan Daniels are the three batsmen that the Petes will have to keep an eye. Pahan though making over 550 runs is a player with better potential but has not lived up to expectations and he is capable of doing the needful in this game while much will be expected from the Jehan double.

Skipper Harin who ended as the top bowler of the side with 77 scalps to his credit will spearhead the bowling attack and the responsibility is no doubt going to be a burden to him.

The skipper will look for support from Ruchira Ekanayake, Nipun Sumanasinghe, Havin Perera and Dineth Jayakody to curtail the strong Peterite batting line up.

The Peterites on the other hand will bank their batting on two players Santhush Gunatilleke and skipper Lakshina who both have been in the runs right through out the season.

Santhush in fact was unfortunate to miss out in achieving 1000 runs for the season when he was dismissed for 85 needing 128 runs and fell short by 43 runs.

Santhush ended with 957 runs and has two tons and seven half tons, so he will no doubt be looking forward to make a memorable big match and will be the one for the Josephians to watch.

Skipper Lakshina along with two others Manelker de Silva and Anishka Perera are the other centurions of the side. Apart from the ton Lakshina has made eight half tons while Manelker who has scored over 575 runs and Anishka 500, has three half tons each

Then there is Shalith Fernando who has scored over 700 runs inclusive of seven half tons along with the above players along with Ranmith Jayasena and Vinul Gunawardena are going to be a thorn in the flesh for the Josephian bowlers

Left arm spinner Mohamed Ameen is their trump card in the bowling department and the youngster has been in the wickets on regular basis and ended up by achieving the magical 100 wickets in a season, the only player to do it so far and he could be the match winner along with Santhush and skipper Lakshina.

The support of Chathura Obeysekera who has taken over 70 wickets and make shift bowlers Santhush Gunatilleke, Sachin Silva and Manelker de Silva would be looked forward to curtail the Josephian batting.

Looking back at the cricketers who donned the Sri Lanka jersey from the two institutions, the Josephians produced Angelo Mathews, Chaminda Vaas, Thisara Perera, Dimuth Karunaratne, Ashley de Silva and Michael Vandort to name a few and the Peterites produced Roy Dias, Rumesh Ratnayake, Russel Arnold, Vinothan John, Amal Silva, Kaushal Lokuarachchi, Malinda Warnapura and Angelo Perera.

The chief guest at the 83rd “Battle of the Saints” will be Kitto Fernandopulle who led the Peterites in the year 1979.

The two day encounter will be followed by the 43rd limited over encounter which is played for the Fr. Peter A. Pillai trophy which is scheduled to be played on March 25 at SSC ground which is returning back to venue after 1994.

In this segment too the Josephians are leading with 21 wins to the 19 by the Peterites with two matches being washed out.

 

St. Joseph’s:

Seated from Left: Asiri Perera (Fitness Trainer), Asiri Caldera (2nd XI MIC), Prasantha Ranaweera (1st XI MIC), Rev.Fr. Milan Bernard (POG), Harin Cooray (Capt), Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel (Rector), Shevon Fonseka (V. Capt), Roger Wijesuriya (Head Coach), Michael Adams (2nd XI Coach,), Dharantha Menerigama (Fielding Coach). 1st Row from left: Shevaan Rasool, Cameron Duruge, Dineth Jayakody, Nipun Sumanasinghe, Jehan Daniel, Revan Kelly, Thashan Perera, Avishka Fernando, Sachintha Mahindasinghe, 2nd Row from left: Kavindu Jayathissa, Pahan Perera, Darlo Dasanayake,, Ruchira Ekanayake, Dineth Madurawala, Jehan Fernandopulle, Lakshan Gamage, Havin Perera.

St. Peter’s:

 
Seated from left: Manuker Gunaratne (Trainer), Sampath Dharmasiri [Fielding Coach], Crishantha Peiris [Bowling Coach], Shanaka Fernando [Asst Coach], Sanath Chinthaka [ Secretary/Senior M. I. C.], Lakshina Rodrigo [Capt), Rev. Fr. Trevor Martin [Rector), Rev. Fr. Thilina Pathum {Sport Co-ordinator), Manelker De Silva [Vice Capt], Malinda Warnapura [Head Coach], Wasanatha Haputhanthri [Junior M. I. C.], Kitto Fernandopulle [Asst Coach], Mahesh De Silva [Manager). First row from left: Banuka de Silva, Shivan Perera, Chathura Obeysekera, Shalith Fernando, Sulakshana Fernando, Anishka Perera, Ravindu Silva, Dinith Anjula, Sachin Silva, Vinul Gunawardane. Top row from left: Nipunaka Fonseka, Ameen Miflal, Ramnith Jayasena, Santhush Gunathilaka, Lashen Rodrigo, Prabasara Herath.

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The history of the Joe-Pete Rugby Encounter

Posted on 18 January 2017 by admin

The History of the Joe-Pete Rugby Encounter – By Umhar Samsudeen

Joe-Pete RugbyThe Josephian – Peterite rugby encounter runs down to a proud history of 50 years.

Since its inception in 1955, the Joes have met the Petes on 51 occasions, out of which the Peterites have turned out victorious on 34 instances and the Joes managing to win only 12 games while the other 5 games ended up being drawn.

In the very 1st encounter between the schools in 1955 since the introduction of rugby at StJoseph’s by the very first Sri Lankan rector at St.Joseph’s Rev.Fr.Peter Pillai, the Peterites under the captaincy of Desmond Euphraims managed to win the game 3- 0 against Mahendra Dias’ Josephian outfit. The Josephians tasted victory for the very first time in 1958 when they beat the Peterites 13-0 under the leadership of C.J.Rajaratnam.

From there on they managed to win the games played in 1960, 1961 and 1962 which incidentally is their longest winning streak.

In 1963 a trophy was initiated as The Rev.Fr.Basil Wiratunga trophy. It was introduced by Mr. Carlo Martin a master at of St.Peter’s College. The captains being Stephen Alagaratnam and the Josephian captain being Ranjith Abeyratne who later went on to be a judge of the Supreme Court.

Since then the Josephians have managed to win the games played in 1968, 1978, 1983, 1987, 1988, 1991, 1998 and the last victory being in 1999. The highest score ever made by the Josephians were 27 – 03 which is incidentally the highest victory margin against the Peterites in a rugby match which is 24 points were also made in 1999 under the captaincy of Lakshitha Gunaratne who is the son of former Sri Lanka and Police rugby legend Rohan Gunaratne.

In the past the Josephians have had the privilege of having players in the likes of late Major Gen. Janaka Perera, brothers Nalin and Shamin Perera, Dinuk De. S.Wijeratne and Dhanushka Perera.

There have been 5 outings where there was no love lost between the two sides of which the first being in 1959 which ended up in an exciting draw with 3 points a piece. The encounter has ended in a 3 all draw on another two occasions which were in 1969 and 1992.

In 1980 the game had ended in a thrilling 6 all draw. Finally, when the Peterites were led by star winger Mohamed Renaz and the Joes taking the field under the captaincy of Rukshan Perera ended in an electrifying 18 all draw at the Royal College sports complex in 2004.

When looking at the performances put up by the Peterites, they have showed much more prowesses compared to the Josephians at the game of rugby by winning 34 of the 51 games played. This can be further depicted when taking a look at the performance put up by the unbeaten Peterite team which was led by Ranuka Jayasinghe in 2007 where they made minced meat out of the Josephians by scoring as much as 8 goals and 17 tries to reach the milestone of 101 points against the solitary try scored by the Josephians to leave the scoreboard reading 101-05 at the CR&FC.

The Peterites now hold the trophy with them for 9 years in a row which is by the way the longest by either of the teams. One would wonder that from 1968 to 1978 is also 9 years, since the Jopsephians were unable to field rugby teams from 1975 to 1977, the trophy was held by the Peterites only for 3 years.

The longest winning streak for the Peterites has been 5 years successively which they have achieved twice from 1963 to 1967 and 1993 to 1997. The Peterites have had the luxury of players in the past in the caliber of Didacus De Almeida, Frank Hubert, Angelo Wickramaratne, Len De Silva, Dilanka Wijesekera and Mohamed Renaz are just a few of the great rugby player that have been part of the Joe-Pete rugby encounter in the past.

With both teams having ups and downs this season an exciting game is on the cards this year. Will Dilshan Paul’s boys be able to make it 5 in a row for the third time? Or will the lads from Darley road be able to hold the trophy after a 10 years streak?

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80th Battle of the Saints between St.Joseph’s College vs St.Peter’s College

Posted on 06 December 2016 by admin

 

Article by Ranjan Anandappa (Sunday Observer)


Blast from the past
 

The 80th annual cricket encounter between St.Joseph's College and St.Peter's College which is also known as the 'Battle of the Saints' played for the Rev .Fr. Maurice Legoc Trophy will herald another series of 'big' encounters among schools. This match will be played on March 7th and 8th (2014) at the P. Sara Oval commencing at 9.30 am each day. 


 

Both teams have taken a decision, like in the recent past to restrict the number of overs for 60 only in the first innings which has made a huge difference in the outcome of the game. With the restriction of the first innings to 60 overs system, it has made the match more interesting and result oriented. 


 

During the past six encounters there have been results on three occasions. In the overall 79 big match series between the two schools, St.Joseph's have won 20 to the Peterites 17. The Joes last won in 2013 under Sachin Hewawasam and the Peterites last savoured a win in 2012 under under Shehan Fernando. 

The two teams seem to be on par with an unbeaten record, this season with the Joes winning three matches outright and the Peterites winning two. For the Bambalapitiya school, Dineth Thimodya with 1000 runs including two centuries against D.S. Senanayake and Ananda and skipper Kavinda de Tissera (762 runs) also with two centuries and deputy Janith Liyanage (763) with a hundred have done the bulk of the scoring. 


 

Among the bowlers, Sahan Nanayakkara has captured over 85 wickets with his left-arm leg-spin and ably supported by off-spinner Vini Mohotty who has taken 42 wickets. Vice Captain Janith Liyanage, besides his batting, has taken over 30 wickets with his medium pace.For the Joes skipper Dylan Fernandopulle has been the highest scorer (659) with a top-score of 90. Middle order batsman Pathum Madusanaka is their sole centurion (107). 


 

St.Joseph's were without the services of two of their key players Sadeera Samarawickrema and Priyamal Perera who were most of the time out with the under 19 team representing the country at the Under 19 Asia Cup and later the Under 19 World Cup played in Dubai. 
 

Priyamal Perera, in the seven matches he played for his school, has made 394 runs with four fifties and Samarawickrema in his seven matches, had scored 155 runs. Both, Samarawickrema and Perera will be available for their 'Big' encounter and their inclusion should make the Joes a stronger outfit while meeting their traditional rivals.. 


 

The Joes will heavily depend on the spin of Aravinda Akurugoda who has taken over 40 wickets and Priyamal Perera with 26 wickets. Malshan Rodrigo and Hashindra Perera both with 29 wickets apiece should form an effective spin combination. 


 

The highest individual score in the series is by former Peterite and Leicestershire professional Clive Inman who struck an unbeaten 204 in 1954.

For the Joes, Hareen Silva scored an unbeaten 141 in the 2009 big match. Under the leadership of Kitto Fernandopulle in 1979, left hander Rohan Buultjens hit twin unbeaten hundreds (109 in the 1st innings and 100 n.o in the 2nd innings) a unique achievement difficult to surpass. 


 

Josephian Shenal Warnakula holds the record for the best individual bowling effort. In the 1997 encounter Warnakula took 9 for 41, surpassing Peterite Dion Walles' 9 for 53 in 1947. Peterite Cyril Dias also took 9 for 64 wickets in an innings in 1933. Peterites Dinesh Kekulthota (8 for 16 in 1990) and Gerald Solomons also from Peter's had the bowling fiogures of 7 for 43 in the 1973 encounter.

Besides Warnakula's 9 for 41, Rajive Benedict 8 for 6 in 1972 and Ranjith Malawana 8 for 57 in 1957 are notable bowling performances for the Josephians. 

 

Teams

St. Peter's College: Kavinda de Tissera (Captain), Janith Liyanage (V.Captain), Chemila Obeysekera, Sahan Nanayakkara, Dineth Thimodya, Hashan Upendra, Oshan Karunaratne, (WK), Sanjula Madushan, Naveen Dharshana, Sachin Dalpadado, Thanishka Weerakoon, Chadula Jayamanne, Savin Gunasekera, Dedulana Medis, Manelka de Silva, Vinu Mohaotty, Lakshina Rodrigo.

St.Joseph's College: Dylan Fernandopulle (Captain), Priyamal Perera, (V.Captain) Sadeera Samarawickrema, Duran de Alwis, Nirvana Abeysekera, Yashan Samarasinghe, Pathum Madusanka, Fabian Fernando, Trishan Thanuja, Aravinda Akurugoda, Shamii Seneviratne, Hasindra Perera, Kalpa Ravihara(WK), Malshan Rodrigo, Brian Jayamanne, Sandaruwan Rodrigo and Vimukthi Peiris.





 

 

 

 

 

The annual Josephian-Peterite big match media conference was held yesterday at the St. Joseph’s Auditorium in Darley Road. The two day match is set to be played on the 07th & 08th March 2014 at the P.Sara Stadium (Oval) Colombo starting 09.30 a.m.

St. Joseph’s College rector Rev.Fr. Travis Gabriel addressing  the media  stated that this event will build a strong bond, friendship and unity as a one catholic family which will be the salient feature of this big event played for the Rev. Fr. Mourice Le-goc memorial trophy.

This year too there will be only 60 overs per team in the first innings of play and a maximum of 105 overs to be bowled at the end of day one. 

The tally thus far is St. Joseph’s have won 12 matches as their last win was in 2008 under Ruwantha Fernandopulle and St. Peter’s have won just 09 and their last win was under Shehan Fernando in 2012.

It was also announced that Mr. Asoka Jayamanne who was the Joes captain in 1988 will be the chief guest.

The 40th Joe-Pete limited over match will be played for the Rev. Fr. Peter A. Pillai Memorial challenge shield in the following week which will be at the Kettarama Stadium on 15th March 2014 at 09.30 a.m.

Once again Joes leads the overall tally winning 20 to Pete’s 17 in the 50 over format of the game.

Mr. Niranjan Rodrigo, the Peterite captain in 1982 will be the chief guest for this one day encounter.

The main sponsor and co-sponsors are to be announced in the future.

Rev. Fr. Trevor Martin rector of St. Peter’s said that this is the time for all the Peterites and Joes to combine for the biggest get together in the year. In addition the old boys who live overseas of both colleges are expected in numbers at the R.Premadasa Stadium to show their bond and utmost passion for the respective colleges.

A cycle parade and a vehicle parade is usually organized by both schools on the day of the ODI fixture and this year too both schools are in the process of organizing it in a huge way.

ThePapare.com will be live streaming the 80th Battle of the Saints and stay tuned for previews, reviews and in sites of the both teams.

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