Warden's Message
It gives me great pleasure to give this brief message to the 125th
Royal Thomian Souvenir on this rare and unique occasion, which marks the one
hundred and twenty fifth anniversary of an unbroken series of cricket matches
between Royal and S. Thomas'.
One hundred and twenty five years of annual cricket encounters between the two Colleges is a rare and unique achievement, having perhaps no parallel in any school, here or even abroad. These matches have developed certain features over this long stretch of time, which has set the pattern for other big matches. These two Colleges have been and continue to be the cradle of cricket in Sri Lanka and in these one hundred and twenty five years of encounters we have seen numerous cricketers who have gone on to excel at higher level. Whichever side won or lost, these matches have been characterized by a true spirit of sportsmanship. While the rivalry is intense, it has always been friendly with no bitterness and the friendships developed last a lifetime. This friendship has been best illustrated by the Joint Celebrations and particularly the Joint Walk in Colombo.
These matches give an opportunity for an increasing number of Old Boys to meet
and reminisce of the good times at College in a convivial and friendly
atmosphere. I welcome the large number of Old Boys of both schools who have come
from overseas to witness this memorable event.
The
organization of this event requires enormous effort and team work and I must
thank the many groups who worked tirelessly to make this event a success. It is
a memorable occasion due to the various contributions made by the Joint
Organizing Committee, Old Boys, the Prefects of both schools, the Teachers,
Coaches, and of course the present Schoolboys.
I
wish both teams the very best of luck, and trust they maintain the expected high
standards of sportsmanship. May this series of matches continue unbroken for
another one hundred and twenty five years.
Esto Perpetua
Dr. David Ponniah
Warden
S. Thomas' College
Mount Lavinia.