Sydney RoyTho 2025Thirty Years On…
A Battle of Tradition, Brotherhood, and Cricketing Glory
It was a day when time stood still, as the echoes of a 146-year-old rivalry resounded across the sun-drenched expanse of Kareela Reserve, Doonside. The annual Royal-Thomian Cricket Festival in Sydney, held on January 26, 2025—Australia Day—marked the 30th anniversary of this iconic encounter in New South Wales. As the morning air filled with the familiar aroma of dhal, pol sambol, and hot bread rolls, old boys from either side of the divide rekindled their schoolboy camaraderie, preparing to don the blues of their alma mater once more.
A Rivalry Steeped in History
Since its inception in 1879, the Battle of the Blues has been more than just a cricket match—it has been a rite of passage, a test of character, and a celebration of a brotherhood forged in competition. The longest uninterrupted school cricket encounter in the world, the Royal-Thomian has seen legends rise, heroes fall, and stories immortalized in schoolboy folklore. It is a contest that transcends the boundaries of sport, carried on across generations and, in the case of Sydney, across oceans.
For three decades, the Royal-Thomian in NSW/ACT has served as a beacon of nostalgia and kinship, binding old boys to their roots while welcoming new generations into its storied fold. This year, the festival saw the contest unfold across three age categories—Opens, Classics, and Vintage—with each battle a testament to skill, resilience, and an unyielding passion for cricket.
The Battle on the Pitch
Opens - E.C. Gunasekara Shield
The crown jewel of the tournament saw S. Thomas’ College take the field first, determined to retain the prestigious E.C. Gunasekara Shield. Facing a disciplined Royal bowling attack, the Thomians showed steely resolve, building an imposing total of 292. Their dominance continued in the second innings, bowling out the Royalists for 133—an emphatic victory reminiscent of Thomian triumphs of yore. The standout performer was Ruwan Gunasinghe, whose elegant 61 and all-round brilliance ensured that the Shield would remain in Mount Lavinia’s grasp for another year.
Classics - Mabel Morrell Challenge Shield
For the seasoned campaigners in the Classics encounter, cricket was an art form, and every stroke a brushstroke on the canvas of tradition. The Royalists, struggling against disciplined Thomian bowling, were bundled out for 127. With the chase proving trickier than anticipated, it took the steady hands of Ruwan and Kulasiri to guide the Thomians past the target, securing yet another shield for the blue, black, and blue. See STC Captain’s Report
Vintage - Sunil de Silva Challenge Shield
The Vintage clash was a masterclass in cricketing nostalgia, featuring players who once graced the hallowed turfs of Reid Avenue and Mount Lavinia. The Royalists, relentless in their pursuit of victory, outplayed their rivals to claim the Sunil de Silva Challenge Shield, winning by six wickets. It was a fitting reminder that while the years may pass, the hunger for victory never wanes. See STC Captain’s Report
Beyond the Boundary – A Day of Festivities
As ever, RoyTho was more than just cricket. The soulful rhythms of ‘Fiesta’ kept spirits high, while the unmistakable beats of baila transformed Kareela Reserve into a carnival of camaraderie. Nadz Kitchen tantalized palates with Sri Lankan delicacies—kottu, hot butter cuttlefish, and devilled chicken bites—ensuring that even those not wielding a bat or ball had something to savor.
Adding an elegant touch to the occasion, Vashigari Emporium showcased exquisite sarees and Sri Lankan apparel, allowing attendees to carry home a piece of their heritage. Meanwhile, The Brad and Kiara Show masterfully captured the magic of the day, broadcasting moments of brilliance, laughter, and nostalgia to audiences far and wide.
Honoring Tradition and Legacy
The festival was graced by Chief Guest Jeffrey Frank Llewellyn Abayasekera, a true Thomian whose journey from Mount Lavinia to Australia was steeped in service, sportsmanship, and devotion to his alma mater. As he took the stage, his words resonated with the echoes of school halls past, recalling days of discipline and camaraderie.
Raised in a Thomian household where cricket was more than a game, Jeffrey reminisced about watching his brother Dugal lead the First XI and how those experiences shaped his love for the sport. Though he played Second XI cricket, his passion extended beyond college, eventually captaining the Central Bank cricket team.
But his legacy was not confined to the cricket field. From working with the Christian Workers Fellowship to serving as an ordained Anglican priest, Jeffrey’s life has been one of dedication and service. “Esto Perpetua,” he mused, reminding the gathering that the Thomian spirit—like this encounter—would endure for eternity.
Final Scores & Awards
Vintage - Sunil de Silva Challenge Shield – Royal Won
Best Batsman: Stanley Jayanthakumar (STC) – 30 Runs
Best Bowler: Channa Atukorala (RC) – 1/9 in 5 overs
Player of the Match: Shanthi Kumar (RC) – 31 Runs & 2/24
Classics - Mabel Morrell Challenge Shield – Thomians Won
Best Batsman: Ruwan Senaviratne (STC) – 30 n.o.
Best Bowler: Sampath Elvitigala (RC) – 3/19 in 5 overs
Player of the Match: Kulasiri Jayasinghe (STC) – 32 n.o.
Opens - E.C. Gunasekara Challenge Shield – Thomians Won
Best Batsman: Daniel Jesuthasan (STC) – 77 Runs
Best Bowler: Hassan Mohammed (STC) – 4/21 in 7 overs
Player of the Match: Ruwan Gunasinghe (STC) – 61 n.o. runs, 1/30 in 6 overs
Looking Ahead to 2026!
As the sun set on Kareela Reserve, another chapter was etched into the annals of this great encounter. With the shields safely locked away and memories securely stored in hearts, the countdown now begins for RoyTho Sydney 2026. And as long as there are Royalists and Thomians, as long as the echoes of ‘Esto Perpetua’ and ‘Floreat’ continue to ring, this battle will rage on.
Esto Perpetua & Forward Together!
For Image Gallery: Click here
For Vintage match report: Click here
For Classics match report: Click here