The 96th edition of the Battle of the Maroons gets underway today as Ananda College and Nalanda College renew their historic rivalry in one of Sri Lanka’s most prestigious school cricket encounters.
First played in 1924, this annual big match has become a cornerstone of the country’s school cricket culture, blending tradition, intense competition, and unmatched school spirit.
Head-to-Head Record
Heading into the 96th encounter, Ananda College holds the upper hand in outright victories, having secured 12 wins, while Nalanda College has recorded 7 outright wins in the previous 95 matches.
The majority of encounters have ended in draws — a reflection of the traditional three-day format where patience, tactical discipline, and first-innings supremacy often determine bragging rights. Despite the number of drawn matches, the outright wins have been fiercely contested and remain defining moments in the rivalry’s history.
Ananda’s slight advantage in the win column adds an extra layer of motivation for Nalanda, who will be eager to narrow the gap in this edition.
A Legacy of Excellence
Over nearly a century, the Battle of the Maroons has produced:
- Memorable centuries under pressure
- Match-turning bowling spells
- Record partnerships
- Dramatic final-day finishes
The fixture has also served as a platform for numerous cricketers who have progressed to higher levels, underlining its importance in Sri Lanka’s cricketing structure.
Focus on the 96th Chapter
As the first ball is bowled today, both teams will aim to:
- Establish early control with the new ball
- Build substantial first-innings totals
- Maintain fielding intensity across all three days
- Seize key sessions that could dictate the outcome
With Ananda leading the historical win tally 12–7, and decades of pride at stake, the 96th Battle of the Maroons promises to be another compelling chapter in one of Sri Lanka’s most enduring school cricket rivalries.
The tradition continues — and history awaits its next moment.
