A proud moment for the rural community of Rathgama, as Devapathiraja College was crowned Under-15 Division I Inter-School Cricket Champions 2026, defeating Royal College, Colombo by 33 runs in the final held at the Ananda College Grounds in Colombo.
This is their second year in the Division I final, and the young Devapathiraja team displayed remarkable consistency throughout the tournament, overcoming several strong opponents on their way to the final. Their journey included an impressive 95-run victory over St. Sebastian’s College, Moratuwa in the semi-final, where captain Diyath Sanjitha contributed an unbeaten 73, while Sineth Madhusanka led the bowling attack with an outstanding four-wicket haul.
In the final, Devapathiraja College scored 192 for 9 after being put into bat, with Sanindu Sineth top-scoring with 51. Royal College made a strong start in their chase, reaching 121 for 2, before the Devapathiraja bowlers fought back brilliantly. With superb bowling and fielding, they claimed the remaining eight wickets for just 38 runs, dismissing Royal College for 159 to secure the championship.
What stood out in this remarkable victory was the mental toughness, superior fitness, careful planning and strong execution.
At the Foundation of Goodness, we are delighted to celebrate this achievement alongside the players, coaches, parents and school community. Supporting rural sporting talent is an important part of creating opportunities for young people to develop their abilities, confidence and aspirations.
This victory is a wonderful testament to the talent and determination of these young cricketers and a reminder that, when given the right opportunities and support, rural youth can rise to remarkable heights.
Captain Diyath Sanjitha has also enjoyed success at both Under-13 and Under-15 level, making his leadership of the team’s latest championship achievement particularly commendable.
The Foundation of Goodness has shared a longstanding relationship with Devapathiraja College, dating back to October 2005, when the school first approached us for support towards a Chess Tournament following the December 2004 tsunami. Over the years, this relationship has grown steadily, including a cricket match between the FoG Cricket Club and Devapathiraja College in 2008, as well as the provision of cricket equipment to the school from time to time.
In 2012, the Foundation of Goodness began supporting the school’s cricket programme by funding its cricket coach, and we now support two coaches. Our involvement with the school’s girls’ cricket programme began in 2010, and we currently support two coaches for the girls’ team as well. It is particularly rewarding to see this longstanding commitment to rural sporting talent reflected in achievements such as this championship victory.
Congratulations to the Devapathiraja College Under-15 Division I Champions!
