The Festival of Cricket (FOC) is said to be one of the largest community events in the UK and Europe. It is a highly anticipated annual social event among the British Sri Lankan community. The FOC brings together one of the largest overseas Sri Lankan communities in the spirit of cricket, spreading goodwill and camaraderie. Since its inception in 1989, with the Old Boys Associations of six schools, the FOC has grown into a major platform uniting over thirty old boys associations representing a wide range of schools in Sri Lanka.
The current President of FOC (a past student of Thurstan College, Sri Lanka) shared with SLF that the Promotional Evening for the Festival of Cricket was held on 14th June 2024 at the Sri Lankan High Commission in Hyde Park, London. The event aimed to promote the 34th Annual Festival of Cricket, scheduled for 7th July 2024, in Ilford, London. The Deputy Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK graciously attended as the Chief Guest. The venue was filled with other distinguished guests, event sponsors, and members of the FOC Executive Committee.
Furthermore, official photos were taken during the event, capturing key moments and highlighting the event’s spirit, including the champion trophy display. Representatives from the defending champion St. Aloysius OBA brought the trophy for display and photo sessions. Other guests included representatives from the main sponsors: SriLankan Airlines, Bank of Ceylon, Tillmax Technology, Universal Suppliers, BVS Mortgages, Phillip Nolan Accountants, The Student Visa Ltd, BL Property, SLT Mobitel, Dasa Consultants, Kevin Refrigeration. Additionally, business marquee holders also joined the event. After the presentation, the gathering moved to the High Commission Lawn, where light refreshments were served.
FOC has also raised funds for numerous charitable activities, including advancing education and sports at their alma maters and providing aid for the procurement of vital medicines and medical equipment for hospitals in Sri Lanka.
Lastly, the Festival of Cricket is a unique concept that has unified the British Sri Lankan community around the all-time favorite sport of cricket. It is the ultimate unifier of people and communities in Sri Lanka, the UK, and the cricket-playing world.
To find out more about the upcoming event: https://www.srilankafoundation.org/events/festival-of-cricket-2024-uk/
