The 66th “Battle of the Babes” big match between St. Sylvester’s College and Vidyartha College was called off on Wednesday following the death of a St. Sylvester’s student in a road accident.
Police said two students were travelling on a motorcycle to attend the match at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium when the vehicle collided head-on with a bus.
One of the students, identified as Nethula Nimdinu, died at the scene, while the other student was admitted to the Kandy National Hospital for treatment.
Following the incident, Central Province Governor Sarath Abeykoon reportedly proposed that the match be halted, after which the principals of both schools decided to call off the game midway.
At the time play was stopped, Vidyartha College were 68 for 3 in 23.5 overs after opting to bat first, with Yasmitha Dissanayake unbeaten on 43.
St. Sylvester’s College later confirmed the death of the student, describing him as a dedicated member of the school community.
Kandy Police have launched investigations into the accident. (Newswire)