These schools often have a long history of competition, some rivalries lasting over a century.

Big matches have become a significant part of modern Sri Lankan culture, involving both school children and adults.

[3][4]Annual Big matches are played between two rival school cricket teams in Sri Lanka.

Most of these matches are held at the end of the first school term, typically in March.

Big Matches are not only competitions between schools but also serve as gatherings for alumni, known as "old boys."