Oxford College of Business (OCB), Sri Lanka’s leading private higher education institution, has been announced as the Platinum Sponsor of the 147th Battle of the Blues, one of the country’s most iconic and enduring school cricketing encounters. The sponsorship marks a powerful convergence of education, heritage, and sporting excellence, as Oxford College of Business partners with a fixture that has shaped generations of Sri Lankan cricketing legends.

The Battle of the Blues — contested annually between Royal College, Colombo and S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia — is among the oldest and most celebrated school cricket rivalries in the world. Entering its 147th edition, the encounter stands as a symbol of tradition, sportsmanship, leadership, and character-building — values that align closely with Oxford College of Business’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded future leaders.

By stepping in as Platinum Sponsor, Oxford College of Business reaffirms its dedication to investing in youth development, sporting excellence, and the holistic formation of young leaders. The partnership reflects OCB’s belief that education extends beyond the classroom — and that sport plays a vital role in shaping discipline, resilience, teamwork, and ethical leadership.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Malindu Ranasinghe, Director/CEO of Oxford College of Business, said: “The Battle of the Blues is more than a cricket match — it is a national tradition that represents character, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence. As Platinum Sponsor of the 147th encounter, Oxford College of Business is proud to stand with two institutions that have shaped some of Sri Lanka’s finest leaders and sportsmen. We believe in supporting platforms that build character as much as competence.”

The sponsorship will support the delivery of a world-class sporting spectacle, enhancing fan engagement, on-ground experiences, and digital coverage, while strengthening the platform for young cricketers to perform on a stage watched by the nation. OCB’s involvement will also extend to student engagement initiatives, youth development programmes, and knowledge partnerships that connect sport with leadership development and career readiness.

Oxford College of Business’s Platinum Sponsorship of the 147th Battle of the Blues further underscores the institution’s broader commitment to community engagement, youth empowerment, and nation-building. As Sri Lanka continues to celebrate its sporting traditions, Oxford College of Business remains steadfast in supporting initiatives that inspire ambition, teamwork, and excellence among the country’s future leaders.