The stage is set for one of Sri Lanka’s most historic and fiercely contested school cricket encounters, the 95th Ananda-Nalanda ‘Battle of the Maroons’, which will be played for the first time as a three-day encounter at the Singhalese Sports Club (SSC) Grounds from February 28 to March 2.
Celebrating 95 years of rivalry, legacy, and excellence, this prestigious encounter between Ananda and Nalanda has played a defining role in shaping Sri Lanka’s cricketing landscape. With a history dating back to 1924, the Battle of the Maroons has consistently produced some of the nation’s finest cricketers, including Bandula Warnapura, Sri Lanka’s first Test captain, and Arjuna Ranatunga, the 1996 World Cup-winning captain.
As a brand deeply rooted in Sri Lanka’s sporting culture, Moose Clothing is proud to be the Official Clothing Partner of this legendary encounter, further strengthening its commitment to the development of cricket at both school and national levels. This partnership also reinforces Moose’s ongoing role as the Official Clothing Sponsor of Sri Lanka Cricket, supporting the game from grassroots to international stages.
A Legacy of Excellence and Passion for Cricket
The Battle of the Maroons is more than just a game—it is a symbol of sportsmanship, unity, and tradition. Played for the Dr. N.M. Perera Memorial Challenge Trophy, the match has seen unforgettable performances over the decades. Ananda College, with 12 wins, currently leads the tally against Nalanda’s seven, with the most recent victory coming in 2022 when Nalanda broke a 69-year drought.
Beyond the competition, the event is a grand celebration of school cricket, bringing together generations of past and present students, cricket enthusiasts, and a passionate fanbase. The much-anticipated ‘Parade of the Maroons’ will add to the excitement, culminating in a gala musical night at the Viharamahadevi Open-Air Theatre.
Moose Clothing: Elevating the Spirit of the Game
“The Battle of the Maroons is a celebration of Sri Lanka’s cricketing heritage, bringing together two institutions that have consistently produced world-class players. Moose Clothing is honored to be the Official Clothing Partner for this iconic event, further strengthening our commitment to the sport. Cricket is more than a game—it’s a passion that unites us all, and Moose is proud to support its legacy at every level.”
With a strong presence in Sri Lanka, Singapore, and the UAE, Moose Clothing continues to expand its reach, combining quality, affordability, and innovation to redefine fashion both on and off the field. As a brand dedicated to excellence and performance, Moose remains committed to empowering athletes and celebrating the traditions that make Sri Lankan cricket special.
The 95th Battle of the Maroons promises to be a thrilling spectacle, and Moose Clothing is proud to stand alongside Ananda and Nalanda in this historic showdown.
From left to right: Ananda College: Captain Ashinsa Nainayake, Former Cricketer and former Anandian: Sidath Wettimuny, Moose Clothing Company- Senior Manager Marketing; Achintha de Silva, Moose Clothing Company – Manager Social Media Marketing; Tharushi Jayathilaka, Former Cricketer, Former Nalandian- Roshan Mahanama, Nalanda College Captain- Sadew Samarasinghe
