The MCA Story
From a single match in 1911 to a national institution shaping Sri Lankan cricket today.
From a humble beginning to a national institution
Established in 1911 as the Mercantile Cricket Competition, the MCA has come a long way since its inaugural match between Cumberbatch SC and Liptons SC, which was won by Cumberbatch. Under the stewardship of its first Sri Lankan president, renowned cricketing figure Chandra Schaffter, and now its current president Mahesh Wijewardene, it has become the premier cricket-promoting organization in Sri Lanka, even being chosen by Cricket Sri Lanka as the model for its own tournaments.
By forming relationships with over 150 top corporate organisations, the MCA has opened up job opportunities for aspiring cricketers from all over Sri Lanka, with hundreds of schoolboys securing employment each year through the Association. These companies — including some of the most prominent and well-known in the country — can take part simply by signing up a six-side team and covering the cost of their matches.
Why we exist
The MCA exists to grow the game of cricket across mercantile, corporate and community circles in Sri Lanka — and to provide the players, member firms and the wider clubhouse with an environment that is welcoming, well-run and worthy of the sport.
- Promote cricket at every level — from grassroots academy through to elite competition.
- Empower talent by partnering with leading firms to create job pathways for aspiring players.
- Invest in infrastructure — grounds, indoor nets, training facilities and clubhouse experiences.
- Champion fair play and the camaraderie of mercantile cricket.
500+ fixtures every year
The MCA organises seven major tournaments and more than 500 fixtures each year, ranging from 'A' to 'G' Division matches, the Mercantile Six-a-Side, the Over-40 Sixes, the 20×20 league, the esteemed MCA Inter Academy Invitational, and the Women's Six-a-Side cricket tournament.
- A–G Division League & Knock-Out
- Mercantile Six-a-Side
- Over-40 Sixes
- 20×20 Mercantile League
- MCA Inter-Academy Invitational
- Women's Six-a-Side
Developing the next generation
In 2002 the MCA opened the MCA Cricket Academy, which currently trains 140+ students for more advanced play, and recently debuted a floodlit basketball court. The commitment of the Executive Committee to the game is unwavering and selfless — the same passion that drove the centenary celebrations, including a T20 invitation super tournament featuring local and international teams, a centenary musical show, an MCA coffee-table book, and a gala dinner for member companies.
