In response to the ongoing fuel challenges facing the country, the organizing committee of St. Joseph’s College, Colombo 10 has taken a forward-thinking and environmentally conscious by transforming its long-standing vehicle parade into a more sustainable and engaging event. This year, the cherished tradition returns in a new form as the Josephian Cycle Parade 2026, promoting eco-friendly practices while preserving its proud legacy.

The Josephian Vehicle Parade Committee officially announced the event, which is expected to bring together Josephians, well-wishers, and the wider community in a vibrant celebration of unity, tradition, and social responsibility.

Over the years, the parade has grown into a signature event, strengthening bonds among past and present Josephians while serving as a platform to support meaningful causes. The 2026 cycle parade promises an energetic showcase of creativity and participation, coupled with impactful fundraising and awareness initiatives.

The organizing committee also revealed strong corporate backing for the event. CK Orbits – Dubai has joined as the Main Sponsor, while Asha Security and Soqka Batik will serve as Event Partners.

Gold Sponsors for the event include IBFS (Pvt) Ltd, Dastol Motors Lanka, Kobra Energy Drink, Coco Varenda Restaurants, Mind Three Engineering (Pvt) Ltd, Master Mind Developers (Pvt) Ltd, Fortune Films, Scan Me, and Wickey Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd.

Silver Partners supporting the initiative are Abanchy (Pvt) Ltd, Sensory Indulgences, U.B. Perera & Company, Apartner, Thilakawardhana Group of Companies, Cannys Bakers & Restaurants, St. John’s Catering, and Fortune Studios.

The involvement of these organizations reflects a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond business, with a focus on uplifting communities and supporting social causes.

Proceeds and efforts from the Josephian Cycle Parade 2026 will go towards the “Break the Silence” initiative, specifically funding a Smart Board Donation Project for the School for the Deaf and Blind in Ratmalana. This project aims to enhance learning experiences through modern technology, empowering students and creating lasting positive change.

Organizers emphasize that the event is more than just a parade it is a movement promoting sustainability, unity, and social responsibility.

The committee extended heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and supporters for their invaluable contributions and expressed confidence in delivering a memorable and impactful event for all involved.

A gripping final-over contest saw Sri Lanka Under-19 secure a narrow three-run win against Australia in the Women’s Under-19 Tri Series clash at Ian Healy Oval on Saturday, underlining their growing composure in tight situations.

Defending a below-par total of 99, Sri Lanka’s bowlers delivered under pressure to seal victory with just one ball remaining. Skipper Chamudi Praboda rose to the occasion with an impactful spell of 3 for 22, while Shashini Gimhani chipped in with 2 for 13 to derail Australia’s chase at key moments.

Earlier, Sri Lanka’s innings was built on patience rather than power. Limansa Thilakarathne held the top order together with a steady 35 off 43 balls, ensuring stability through the middle overs. A late flourish from Pramudi Methsara, who struck 21 off 13 deliveries, gave the innings a much-needed boost and pushed the total within fighting range.

Australia appeared on course during their chase but were gradually pulled back by disciplined lines and sharp fielding. Their innings closed at 96 in 19.5 overs, falling just short of the target in a dramatic finish.

The ongoing Women’s Under-19 ODI and T20 Tri-Series in Australia, also featuring lasses from England and Sri Lanka has unearthed new talents who could rule Women’s Cricket at global stage in years to come. With hosts Australia and Sri Lanka taking major honours, with four wins and a loss after playing five games each, England may have a lot to ponder after six straight losses in the T20 series.

But two girls of Sri Lankan origin have made headlines back in the island nation on the Indian Ocean, making a significant stride. All-rounder Malisha Tennakoon is one such youngsters, besides her team-mate Venus Weerappuli, both with roots from Sri Lanka. Though Venus has been a regular member of the England U-19 Women’s team in both ODI and T20 formats, Malisha played her part as a right-hand middle-order batter and right-arm pace bowler in the three ODI games she played.

A student of Abbotsholm School in Rocester, Derbyshire, Malisha is. Warcickahire academy player who also represents Derbyshire Falcons and her county age group U18 representing her home county Staffordshire as an all-rounder. Coming in as a reserve in the England U-19 Women’s squad preparing for the Tri-Series in Australia, Malisha had made both her clubs and school equally proud. As young players when she was U13 she had the rare opportunity to play and won at Lords cricket ground for Lady Tavenors national cup final for her women’s club.

Her recognition within the England pathway at this stage has brought a tremendous honour to her efforts, and a true testament to her hard work and talent. At her school, Abbotsholm, Malisha is regarded an an inspiration to younger pupils, and a brilliant example, motivating more girls to pick up a bat and believe in where the game can take them. Her ultimate goal is to represent England at the highest level.