A landmark agreement to extend the annual Mahinda-Richmond cricket encounter, affectionately known as the “Lovers’ Quarrel,” to three days was signed on December 16 at the Olcott Hall of Mahinda College, Galle.
This change will commence with the 120th match in 2025.
Key representatives signing the agreement included Janaka Peduruhewa, Principal of Mahinda College; P.S. Pushpakumara, Principal of Richmond College; Sampath Ratnayake, Secretary of the Mahinda College Old Boys’ Association; and Chamli Kulawardhana, Secretary of the Richmond College Old Boys’ Association. Witnessing the agreement was Nalin Taranga Nandasiri Paranagama, Secretary of the Mahinda College School Development Society, and Udara Alahakoon, Secretary of the Richmond College School Development Society.
The event was graced by distinguished alumni and renowned cricketers, Upul Chandana (Mahinda College) and Champaka Ramanayake (Richmond College), as chief guests.
Upul Chandana expressed his enthusiasm, stating:
“This is a historic moment. Achieving this decision required years of effort and perseverance by many individuals. Today, we celebrate the collective agreement to extend this iconic encounter to three days.
Such a decision reflects strong leadership and a shared vision. It’s crucial to prepare young cricketers not just to excel but to embrace challenges. This step signifies progress, and I commend both schools and Sri Lanka Cricket for their support.”
Champaka Ramanayake echoed similar sentiments, saying:
“As Upul mentioned, this has been a long-standing ambition. After 20 years of discussions and effort, we’ve reached a significant milestone. This extension will create more opportunities to showcase exceptional cricketing talent, enabling players to achieve remarkable feats.
Rain delays or other disruptions will no longer limit the competition’s potential. This format allows decisive outcomes and enhances the cricketing experience. I believe this change will inspire generations of players, fostering their growth and the enduring friendship between our schools.
Mahinda and Richmond have both gifted exceptional players to Sri Lanka. I eagerly await the three-day encounter in April 2025, confident it will be a memorable event.”
The signing ceremony was attended by deputy and assistant principals, faculty members, representatives from the Old Boys’ Associations and School Development Societies, sports teachers, coaches, and current and former cricket captains and players from both schools.
This historic decision not only elevates the Mahinda-Richmond encounter but also strengthens the camaraderie and sporting spirit shared by the two schools, promising an exciting new chapter in their cricketing tradition.
