In a stirring celebration of unity and true sportsmanship, the long-awaited Battle of Dreams between St. Aloysius’ College, Galle, and Holy Cross College, Kalutara unfolded with grace and grandeur at the iconic Galle International Cricket Stadium on the 30th and 31st of May 2025.
Though the match ended in a draw, the real triumph lay far beyond the scoreboard. It was the radiant spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and brotherhood that soared above all, proving that in this battle, it was camaraderie, not competition that claimed the ultimate victory.
From the very outset, the encounter transcended the boundaries of a mere cricket match. It became a moving testament to the unbreakable bonds of brotherhood between two proud institutions. As the students of Holy Cross College, accompanied by their beloved teachers, parents and well-wishers, arrived in Galle by train, they were met with a sight that stirred the heart. The students and teachers of St. Aloysius’ College stood lined along the streets, waving the vibrant flags of both schools, their cheers ringing out in a joyous chorus of unity and celebration.
This heartfelt and honourable welcome was more than a gesture – it was the perfect prologue to two unforgettable days marked not just by competition, but by camaraderie, respect, and shared spirit.
On the field, the game was fierce and thrilling, despite being shortened to just a few overs and hours due to the relentless hand of nature. But it was beyond the boundary lines that the true spirit of the occasion shone brightest. When an unexpected downpour brought play to a halt, it wasn’t hesitation but heartfelt hospitality that took center stage. With remarkable grace and warmth, students of St. Aloysius’ College rushed forward, guiding their brothers from Holy Cross College to shelter beneath tents. These spontaneous acts of kindness; unrehearsed and genuine, spoke far louder than any scoreboard ever could. They were a powerful reflection of the deep-rooted respect, love, and solidarity that unite the two schools in a bond far greater than the game itself.
In the stands, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. Students and Old Boys from both colleges danced together to the rhythm of the ‘papare’ bands, shared laughter, and cheered for every moment of brilliance regardless of which side it came from. Wickets were celebrated jointly, not with rivalry but with the shared joy of the game. It was a rare and beautiful sight— one where sportsmanship triumphed over competitiveness.
In a time when many school encounters are marred by conflict and discord, the Battle of Dreams stood out as a shining example of harmony and maturity. The match concluded not in controversy but in handshakes, hugs, and heartfelt smiles. Both teams, along with their supporters, embraced the result with grace, proving that cricket, at its best, unites rather than divides.
As the players and spectators departed the grounds, they did so not merely as members of two different schools, but as friends bonded by shared memories and a renewed commitment to the true spirit of sports. It was a day that reminded everyone present that cricket is not just a sport, but a bridge between hearts.
With the stage now set, all eyes turn to the inaugural one-day encounter, scheduled to take place on 28th June 2025 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. If the recent match is any indication, it promises to be yet another unforgettable chapter in this inspiring journey of friendship, sportsmanship, and unity. (Rev. Fr. Milan Bernard/Ms. Sachini Mendis)
