Following the ‘Clash of the Origins’ encounter, the Sri Lanka Rugby selectors picked a 32-member squad to represent Sri Lanka in a tour to Malaysia ahead of the Asia Rugby Championship which is set to commence on the 18th of May. Although Roshan Weerarathna was named captain in that initial Sri Lanka squad, there has now been a change reported.
Read More : Roshan Weeraratne to lead Sri Lanka in do or die battle
Due to a personal commitment, Roshan Weerarathna is to miss out on the tour, and therefore former Isipathana and Junior National skipper, Omalka Gunarathna has been appointed as the new captain of the Sri Lanka Presidents XV’s team.
Read More: 39-man squad named ahead of Tour of Malaysia
Omalka was a key member of the 2014 Isipathana team which emerged as triple champs, and later held the responsibility as the deputy skipper in the championship winning U20 National Sevens team in 2016. He also plays a vital role at the back of the CR scrums, leading the forwards and also the team when Kavindu Perera was ruled out earlier last season.
Read More : Sri Lanka Rugby will continue with their tour
Although this tour is considered as a preparation tour for the main event, the Asia Rugby Championship two weeks later, this will be a real tester for many players to prove themselves. Young Gunarathna has a set of debutants who are just one step away from donning the Sri Lanka National Jersey in his maiden tour as skipper. However, he is still backed up with the experience of Roshan Weerarathana who shared his thoughts with ThePapare.com.
“I’m really sad that I’m unable to make it for the tour but due to my personal commitments I have to excuse myself from Sri Lanka Rugby. However, I have been to the practice sessions and I will continue to be there for the team and help out even after they fly”
The first game is set to take place on 2nd May.
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