The Bandula Warnapura Memorial Cricket Trophy 2024 concluded with the Nalanda Vikings emerging victorious, defeating the Nalanda Titans in the final. 

The event was organised for the Nalanda College Cricket Academy by the Past Cricketers’ Association (PCA) of Nalanda College to honour the memory of the late Bandula Warnapura. 

The tournament was held on 12, 13, and 18 September at the iconic Nalanda College Grounds. 

The four teams – Nalanda Vikings, Nalanda Titans, Nalanda Warriors, and Nalanda Wizards – battled for the prestigious title with the Nalanda Vikings clinching the championship. The Nalanda Titans put up a commendable fight to secure the runner-up title.

Hemali Warnapura, wife of the late Bandula Warnapura and his family members were Chief  Guests at the memorable occasion. Special guests included cricketing legends Roshan Mahanama and Mahela Jayawardene. Rangiri Holdings Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Danusha Pathirage and The Chance Sports Chairman Lasantha Amarasinghe were in attendance as the Main Sponsor and Co-Sponsor to support and encourage the young cricketers. 

The tournament consisted of 64 players along with their team managers and coaches. The coaches and managers were from the current First 11 players, and they aimed to nurture and groom cricketers to the national level, showcasing talent and sportsmanship. It also introduced advanced video analysing technology to enhance player performance and match analysis. 

First President of the PCA, former Nalanda Captain and CCC Division 1 player Upul Gamage was appreciated for his continuous service to Nalanda cricket for over 20 years. Former Nalanda cricket coaches Prasanna Dahanayake, Nimantha Peiris, and Menaka Malruk were also honoured before an audience of former Nalanda cricketers and Old Boys’ Association (OBA) officials.