Thomians – Joes clash for Jayasuriya Trophy

The 107th annual inter school under 19 cricket encounter between S. Joseph’s College and S. Thomas’ College Mount Lavinia for the Gilmour Jayasuriya Trophy will be worked off today and tomorrow at Darley Road.

The Gilmour Jayasuriya Trophy was introduced in 1994 by the family of Gilmour Jayasuriya. Jayasuriya started playing cricket at S. Thomas’ College in the late 1930’s and he attended both schools having played second eleven cricket at S.Thomas’ College.

He then proceeded to St. Joseph’s College where he played First Eleven Cricket as a left arm opening bowler while sharing the new ball along with the legendary Fairlie Dalpathado.

His five wicket haul was a major force in the great Josephian victory in the year 1941 under the captaincy of Hugh Muller. The Thomians were then led by Raja Proctor.

Out of the 106 encounters played so far the Josephians have won 25 and the Thomians 17 with 64 encounters been drawn. The Joes last won in 2009 while the Thomians won in 1995 under Nilanka Pieris (Snr).

The Josephians by virtue of their win in 2009 are the present holders of the Trophy. Special cash prizes for the winners and other prizes will be awarded for the Man of the Match, Best Batsman and Best Bowler.

(C.D)