Legends Trophy 2025

A Day of Thrills, Spills, and Split Decisions at Sweeney Reserve!

The air was buzzing with anticipation on Saturday, March 29th, 2025, as Sweeney Reserve in Berwick played host to the annual cricketing spectacle that is the Legends Trophy clash between St Benedict's College OBU (Old Bens) and Wesley College OBU. Following weeks of eager build-up, the day delivered on its promise of thrilling cricket action, camaraderie, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Over-40 Masters match

The day kicked off with the Over-40 Masters match, and Wesley OBU drew first blood after winning the toss and electing to field. The Old Bens Masters team put up a respectable total of 125 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs, with Manoj DeRose leading the charge with a well-crafted 43. Marlyn Suraweera also chipped in with a valuable 27, while Aravinda Canekeratne (11) and Chandimal Perera (13*) provided crucial runs down the order.

However, Wesley's experienced lineup chased down the target with relative ease, reaching 129 for 4 in just 17.3 overs to secure victory in the Masters category. While the Old Bens bowlers – Jude Sajan (1 for 12), Dinesh Khanna (1 for 5), and Prasad Cooray (1 for 28) – put in a spirited effort, it wasn't enough to contain the Wesley batsmen on the day.

Open-age match

Next up was the highly anticipated Open-age match, and this encounter proved to be a nail-biting thriller that went right down to the wire. Wesley OBU once again won the toss, this time choosing to bat first. The Old Bens bowlers were on fire, restricting Wesley to a modest 98 for the loss of 9 wickets in their 20 overs. Captain Sachin Peiris led from the front, picking up an impressive 2 wickets for just 9 runs, while Shiran Rathnayake also contributed with 2 crucial wickets for 12 runs.

The chase for the Old Bens Open team was anything but straightforward. Wesley's bowlers put up a strong fight, making every run a hard-earned one. Wickets fell at regular intervals, and the tension was palpable as the game progressed into the final overs. However, crucial contributions from Madura Madushanka (31), Navodh Abeysinghe (20), Himesh Gimhan (12), and a steady knock of 11 from Surein Silva helped steer the Old Bens towards the finish line. In a dramatic finish, the Old Bens managed to scrape through, reaching 99 for the loss of 6 wickets in the 19th over, sending waves of elation through the Benedictine supporters.

Sister schools cricket encounter

Adding to the day's sporting action was the sister schools cricket encounter between Good Shepherd Convent and Methodist College. In a exciting encounter, Good Shepherd Convent emerged victorious by a single wicket, showcasing the talent and passion within the sister school communities. Methodist College batted first and scored 34 for 5 overs, which the Shepherdians chased down, reaching 35 in just 4.1 overs.

Food, Music and Camaraderie

While the Masters trophy went to Wesley this year, the victory in the Open-age category meant that the Legends Trophy for 2025 will proudly reside with St Benedict's College OBU! The day was a true testament to the enduring rivalry and camaraderie between the two esteemed institutions.

Beyond the on-field action, the Legends Trophy 2025 was a resounding success in fostering community spirit. Families and friends gathered at Sweeney Reserve, enjoying the delicious food from the food trucks, refreshing drinks, and the lively tunes spun by DJ Shanzta. It was a fantastic opportunity for old boys, their families, and supporters to reconnect and celebrate the strong bonds that unite the St Benedict's and Wesley communities.

A huge congratulations to both the Old Bens teams for their spirited performances, and a special shout-out to the Open-age team for bringing home the coveted Legends Trophy! The memories created on this sunny Saturday in Berwick will undoubtedly be cherished until the next edition of this fantastic event. We look forward to seeing you all again next year!