Thomians script dramatic win

Royal College’s bold gamble will haunt them for years as their arch-rivals, S. Thomas’ College, pulled off a stunning five-wicket heist in the 146th Battle of the Blues, scripting one of the most dramatic victories in the history of the encounter at the SSC grounds yesterday.

Declaring with a lead of 232, Royal dared the Thomians to chase the seemingly improbable target in just 42 overs. Initially, it appeared the declaration was justified as the Thomians began cautiously. But then, like a storm tearing through a quiet evening, Sadev Soyza arrived at the crease and flipped the script. With aggressive intent and fearless stroke play, Soyza hammered a game-changing 52 off just 32 balls, breathing new life into the chase. His fireworks set the stage for first-innings centurion Dineth Goonawardena and fresher Reshon Solomons to take charge, both crafting brilliant half-centuries to carry S. Thomas’ to an unforgettable victory—breaking a six-year drought and lifting the prestigious shield, last won under Sithara Hapuhinna’s leadership.

Entering the third and final day, a dull draw loomed large. But Royal, in a bid for an outright victory, made a daring declaration at 215 for 8, setting up a chase that most believed to be beyond reach. Royal’s innings was spearheaded by two half-centuries—one from Rehan Peiris, who followed up his breathtaking 158 in the first innings with a gritty 53, and another from skipper Ramiru Perera, who scored an even 50. The highlight, however, belonged to Darien Diego, who ripped through Royal’s middle order with a sensational hat-trick, becoming the first Thomian to achieve the feat since 1997. His five-wicket haul for just 40 runs turned the momentum in favour of S. Thomas’ just before their chase.

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