Dialog Axiata PLC is set to further expand its ‘Play for a Cause’ initiative in 2026, extending support to four additional schools as part of its continued commitment to Powering the next generation of talent. Aligned with its vision of powering the champions of tomorrow, the Company’s sustainability-driven programme — delivered in partnership with the 147th Battle of the Blues — aims to strengthen grassroots school cricket by providing essential equipment and resources to emerging teams across Sri Lanka.
For 2026, the Royal–Thomian Cricket Joint Match Organising Committee has selected Cp/Na/Sri Naga National School – Naula, Cp/Na/Nalanda Maha Vidyalaya – Matale, Weera Keppetipola Central College – Akuramboda and Pl/Irahada Ketu Wewa Maha Vidyalaya – Diyabeduma as beneficiaries. Each school will receive much-needed cricket gear, enabling young players to train and compete with improved resources and confidence.
The funding model behind ‘Play for a Cause’ once again ties performance to purpose. Dialog Axiata PLC has pledged Rs 1,000 for every run scored and Rs 10,000 for every wicket taken during the annual Royal–Thomian encounter. Since its launch, the initiative has supported more than 52 schools islandwide, distributing cricket equipment valued at millions of rupees.
Asanga Priyadarshana, Group Chief Corporate Officer of Dialog Axiata PLC said, “Dialog’s ‘Play for a Cause’ initiative reflects our belief that sport can open pathways for young talent across Sri Lanka. By linking the tradition of the Royal–Thomian encounter with a purpose-driven contribution model, every run scored and wicket taken helps provide essential cricket equipment to emerging schools. We are pleased to extend this support to four additional schools in 2026, continuing our commitment to strengthening grassroots cricket and empowering the next generation of champions.”
The Battle of the Blues itself stands as one of the most enduring traditions in school cricket. Now spanning 147 consecutive years, it is recognised as the second longest uninterrupted cricket series in the world, surpassed only by the annual fixture between St. Peter’s College and Prince Alfred College in Adelaide, which began a year earlier.
S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia will take on their arch-rivals Royal College, Colombo in the 147th Battle of the Blues, scheduled to be held on 12th, 13th and 14th March 2026 at the country’s premier Test cricket venue, the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Followed by the 49th Mustangs Trophy on the 28th of March at the SSC.
Dialog Axiata PLC invites the public to witness the Royal–Thomian encounter on Sri Lanka’s #1 5G Network & catch every moment of the action live on ThePapareTV via Dialog Television Channel 126, or stream it on the Dialog Play Mobile App and ThePapare.com.
Dialog Axiata is the proud sponsor of the National Cricket, Volleyball, Netball and Esports teams. Dialog is also the primary sponsor of the Sri Lanka Golf Open and Paralympic sports by powering the National Para Games, and the Sri Lankan contingent to the World Paralympic Games. Further, in line with its commitment towards powering the champions of tomorrow, the company continues to power the President’s Gold Cup Volleyball, National Junior and Senior Netball tourneys, and School Rugby.
