News

Oxford Presidents Cup 2024: Excitement Builds as Hameed Al Husseinie College Hosts Prestigious Soccer Tournament for 14th Year

Published

2 years ago

January 24, 2024

Editor

Colombo, January 24, 2024 – The eagerly anticipated Oxford Presidents Cup (Challenge Trophy) is set to kick off on the 3rd of February 2024 at the Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo. Organized by the Group of 80’s of Hameed Al Husseinie College, Colombo, and generously sponsored by Oxford Group, this tournament has become a staple in promoting soccer among school children and the wider public for the 14th consecutive year.

Objectives of the Tournament

The primary objectives of the tournament include popularizing soccer, fostering fellowship among participants regardless of background, and providing a vibrant platform for young talents to develop character for future local and international soccer events. The tournament also aims to prepare players for larger grounds and floodlit matches, offering a golden opportunity for selectors from the Sri Lanka Schools Football Association and the National Team to identify and nurture future talents.

Key Dates and Venues:

Opening Day Match: 3rd February 2024 at Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo.
Pre Quarters & Quarter Finals: 4th, 5th, and 11th February 2024 at Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo.
Semi Final: 18th February 2024 at Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo.
Grand Finale: 10th March 2024 at Racecourse Ground, Colombo 7.

Brief History of College Football:

Established in 1884, Hameed Al Husseinie College, Colombo, boasts a rich history spanning over 140 years. Not only has the institution produced notable personalities in various fields, but it has also been a powerhouse in sports. The school, instrumental in training the first-ever world champion in Sri Lanka, continues to shine in football. Over the years, it has clinched major titles across various tournaments, making it a renowned name in school football.

Themes and Recent Achievements:

As ardent football promoters, the organizers have introduced themes for each year. This year’s theme is the “President Trophy.” In the previous edition, Hameed Al Husseinie College emerged victorious in a thrilling finale against Kaluthara Muslim Central College, Colombo, securing a historic 2-0 win in front of a packed crowd at Racecourse Ground.

Invited Teams for Oxford Presidents Cup 2024:

Ananda College, Colombo
De Mazenod College, Kandana
Aligar Central College, Eravur
St Benedict’s College, Colombo
St Mary’s College, Negambo
Maristella College, Negombo
Hameed Al Husseinie College, Colombo
Baduriya Central College, Mawanella
St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
St. Peters College, Colombo
D S Senanayake College, Colombo
Gateway International, Colombo
Wesley College, Colombo
S. Thomas College, Mount Lavinia
Royal College, Colombo
Al Mubarak National School, Malwana
Darussalam College, Colombo
Isipathana College, Colombo
Dharmadutha College, Badulla
Zahira College, Colombo
St. Henry’s College, Jaffna
Al Hilal Central College, Negambo
Al Humaizara College, Beruwala

With an impressive lineup of schools and a history steeped in excellence, the Oxford Presidents Cup 2024 promises to be a showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and the enduring spirit of soccer. Fans and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the kickoff of this prestigious tournament that has become a highlight in the Sri Lankan school football calendar.

Match Fixtures

Cricket

Chamindu Wickramasinghe’s bowling action under scrutiny?

Published

9 hours ago

April 13, 2026

Editor

Sri Lankan fast bowler Chamindu Wickramasinghe has come under the spotlight after his bowling action was officially reported as suspicious during a recent domestic encounter.

The incident occurred in a match of the National Super League held from April 6 to 9, where the Dambulla side faced Colombo. Wickramasinghe, representing Dambulla, drew attention from match officials, prompting concerns over the legality of his action.

The on-field umpires, Deepal Gunawardena and Ravindra Wimalasiri, made the report in accordance with standard procedures. Match referee Manoj Mendis also oversaw the process, ensuring that all regulations were followed.

Following the report, the matter has been referred to the Sri Lanka Cricket High Performance Unit for further assessment. Wickramasinghe may now be required to undergo biomechanical testing to determine whether his bowling action complies with the laws of the game.

Cricket

Sri Lanka lasses continue to impress

Published

10 hours ago

April 13, 2026

Editor

Sri Lanka Under-19 Women extended their impressive run in the Tri-Series with a composed four-wicket victory over Australia Women Under-19 cricket team at Bill Pippen Oval Today.

After being put in to bat, Australia U-19 struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. Ayla Johnson top-scored with 18 off 29 balls, while Alyssa Dermody added a quick 13. However, regular wickets halted their progress as they finished on a modest 91 for 9 in 20 overs. Limansa Thilakarathne led the bowling effort with an impressive 3 for 26, well supported by Chamudi Praboda, who claimed 2 for 21.

In response, Sri Lanka Women Under-19 cricket team chased down the target with 92 for 6 in 19.3 overs. Despite a few setbacks, Pramudi Methsara anchored the innings with an unbeaten 21 off 17 balls, while Danodya Sewmini contributed a steady 14. Australia’s Filippa Suesee (3 for 18) and Ira Aery (2 for 13) fought hard, but Sri Lanka held their nerve.

News

Football Chief Jaswar Umar Enters Race for NOC Presidency

Published

1 day ago

April 12, 2026

Editor

Jaswar Umar, President of the Football Federation of Sri Lanka, has officially submitted his nomination to contest for the presidency of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.

Umar becomes the fourth candidate in the race, joining Shirantha Peiris, Deva Henry, and Asanga Seneviratne, who are also contesting for the top position in the country’s Olympic body.

His time as football chief has created divided opinions among sports professionals who evaluate his performance. On one hand, Sri Lanka’s national team has shown improvement in international results, including a rise in the FIFA rankings from 204 to 191, along with notable performances against stronger opposition.

However, his approach has also faced criticism. Stakeholders have raised concerns over the increased reliance on Sri Lankan-origin overseas players, with claims that it has limited opportunities for local talent. The long-term vision for developing youth and building grassroots football programs has become a subject of public inquiry.

Umar now aims to advance his career through NOC while he leads Sri Lankan football with both positive results and ongoing public criticism of his work.

The upcoming election will become a competitive battle because four candidates will vie for control of a key position which holds major power within the country’s sports system.