Eagles aim for the top

Dialog Schools Rugby League 2024

By
Kevin Dhananjan
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559

Let’s take a closer look at the St. Anthony’s College, Kandy Rugby team that will be competing in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2024.

History

St. Anthony’s College, Kandy, has a storied history in school rugby, dating back to 1956. Initially playing mostly 2nd XV matches, the team started competing in full seasons by 1961. The college achieved a significant milestone in 2001 by becoming the Schools Rugby League Champions. Over the years, St. Anthony’s has produced numerous outstanding Sri Lankan players who have significantly contributed to rugby development, coaching, and administration across the country.

Current Outfit

Following a successful 2023 season, where St. Anthony’s College made it to the top 4 for the first time in over a decade, the team is gearing up for another promising year. The key players who drove last season’s success are no longer eligible to play this season. The leadership baton has been passed to Oshan Gunarathne, the scrumhalf who played a crucial role in last year’s success. Supporting him as deputy captain is the experienced Ravindu Welagedara.

This year’s squad is characterized by a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. The presence of ten players in their final season ensures a strong leadership core, while the younger players, who have 2-3 years left, bring energy and potential to the team. This mix offers a balanced approach, providing a solid foundation for both immediate success and future development.

Players to Watch Out For

The combination of Oshan Gunarathne as captain and Ravindu Welagedara as vice-captain will be crucial for the success of St. Anthony’s. Gunarathne is sure to control the game at the number 9 position, while Welagedara can be dangerous with the ball in hand. One of the standout second-row forwards from the 2023 season across all schools, Rakesh Pillai, who is 6’4” tall, will surely call the shots this season too for the Eagles and is expected to be a vital component of the pack. The team also benefits from the return of key players such as Abdhul Rashith, Thisara Gallanga, and Akesh Silva.

Coaches

The team is coached by Achala Perera, a former player for Kingswood, Navy SC, and the national team. His wealth of experience is complemented by Srinath Sooriyabandara, who oversees the backs and serves as the team’s trainer. Sooriyabandara’s background includes playing for Isipathana, Kandy SC, and the national sevens and fifteens teams, adding considerable expertise to the coaching staff. Perera and Sooriyabandara bring a strategic and holistic approach to training, focusing on physical fitness, tactical awareness, and mental preparation. Their combined experience and understanding of the game at both national and club levels provide the Antonians with a competitive edge.

Expectations for the Season

An advantage for the Eagles this season is that five out of their seven group games will be played in Kandy, providing a significant home-field boost. Playing in familiar surroundings, with the support of local fans, can be a decisive factor in close matches. The strategic planning and rigorous training regimen set by the coaching staff aim to enhance the players’ skills and foster a cohesive team dynamic. With this solid mix of maturity and potential, the Eagles are well-prepared to rise to the challenge and create another memorable chapter in their rugby history. As the new season unfolds, it will be intriguing to see if St. Anthony’s College can sustain its upward trajectory and make another significant mark in Sri Lankan school rugby. All eyes will be on the Antonians as they embark on this journey, eager to see how they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Full Squad

Forwards – Damian Woods, Thisara Galanga, Akesh Hansaja, Sasindu Senarathne, Sithum Perera, Rakesh Pillai, Saneth Rathnayake, Gaveen Aritha, Chamalka Hirushan, Abdul Rasith, Mohommed Faraz, Damian Prabath, Udara Senarathne, Tharusha Karunanayake, Nethmika Liyanage, Akesh Sampath, Thushan Rasanjana, Oshitha Sooriyabandara, Dilantha Dasanayake, Yohan Kiniston, Dinuka Jayasundara, Nehan Nanayakkara, Givantha Dahanayake, Avan Ekanayake, Munzil Muzammil, Chandira Galapitage, Lakvin Manthilake, Tharusha Manage, Visal Senevirathne, Ravindu Gregory, Dashintha Amarakoon

Backs – Oshan Gunaratne (Captain), Ravindu Welagedara (Vice-Captain), Nick Fonseka, Thimira Ekanayake, Lakmina Bulogahena, Omitha Dissanayake, Deshan Liyanage, Randeer Perera, Shevin Fonseka, Tajith Aludeniya, Mohommed Shimak, Vimukthi Kodikara, Ishan Samarasinghe, Shone Emanuel, Chamika Adhikari, Frankon Jeshakumar, Minuja Herath, Resanda Bandara, Ashan Keerthisiri

Fixtures

  • Vs Science College – 15th June at Nittawela Stadium
  • Vs S. Thomas’ College – 22nd June at S. Thomas’ Grounds, Mount Lavinia
  • Vs D.S Senanayake College – 28th June at Havelock Park
  • Vs Sri Sumangala College – 7th July at Bogambara Stadium
  • Vs Dharmaraja College – 14th July at Bogambara Stadium
  • Vs Trinity College – 19th July at Pallekelle
  • Vs Isipathana College – 27th July at Nittawela Stadium

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