Isipathana College has set their sights on clinching a third consecutive championship title in the Dialog Under 19 inter-schools league and knockout rugby tournaments. Isipathana College, which has been dubbed the kings of schools’ rugby, has already won the schools’ 7’s title. They will be aiming to become champions in all four competitions this year.
Leading their campaigns is fly-half Naveen Kanishka, with the captain strengthened by reliable and experienced players such as winger Rinesh Silva, centre Chamindu Chirath, scrum half Sehandu de Costa, and No. 8 Nisaja Jayaweera.
Last year, Isipathana College was unbeatable throughout the season and clinched both the league and knockout titles. Despite losing seven players, the school’s coach Saliya Kumara is optimistic of retaining their title this year.
Isipathana College has won the league and knockout titles six times in total, with previous victories registered in 1985, 1986, 1992, 1997, 1999 and 2014.
The school began the league in style by defeating Kingswood College 32-08 in their opening fixture. Spearheaded by former Sri Lankan player Saliya Kumara, Isipathana College is expected to dominate the competition this year, with fierce competition expected from other top schools in the country.
The team members are as follows: Naveen Kansihka (Captain), Rinesh Silva, Chamindu Chirath, Sehandu de Costa, Hashen Randimal, Chamath Iroshan, Sehandu de Costa, Tharindu Eranga, Nisaja Jayaweera, Dunila Fernando, Kaveen Tharusha, Senuth Dinusata, Savinu Arawgoda, Chamindu Dilshan, Kalindu Silva, Shaahid Zumri, Lasitha Mapitigama, Abdullah Faizer, Gesandu Maneth, Bashitha Chathuranga, Sithurpa Bometh, Avishka Hiran, Kenula, Mihisara, Tehan Ranaweera, Thrienthra Dodangoda, Sithum Damhiru, Raheem Ahamad, Nimantha Sandeepa, Shaakib Zumri.
Kumara will be assisted by Forwards Coach Dhanushka Boteju, Trainer Hashan Gomez, Manager Rehan Massadiq, and Master in-Charge Sumeda Premasiri. Isipathana College will be hoping to add more silverware this year to their already well-decorated trophy cabinet.
