The Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s Tournament, one of the most prestigious events in the Rugby calendar, is set to welcome back a unique team to its ranks.
The Royal Tuskers, representing the Old Royalists Rugby Team in the U.A.E., will once again compete in the Gulf Men’s Social League of the tournament, scheduled for November 29 to December 1, 2024, at the iconic Sevens Stadium in Dubai, U.A.E.
Pioneering Spirit Continues
Having made history in 2023 as the first Sri Lankan school alumni rugby team to compete in the social league of the Gulf region, the Royal Tuskers are gearing up for an even stronger showing in 2024. The team, comprised of Old Royalists in the United Arab Emirates (ORUAE), brings a unique blend of camaraderie and competitive spirit to the tournament.
Intensive Preparation Underway
Team captain Dayan Diddeniya along with his incredible team expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming tournament: “We’re better prepared this time around. Our team is committed to weekly rigorous practice sessions, honing our skills and strengthening our teamwork. We’re determined to make an impact in the 2024 tournament.”
Tournament Overview
The Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s, celebrating over five decades of rugby excellence since its inception in 1970, remains one of the longest-running sports events in the Middle East. The tournament features three divisions:
1. Gulf Men’s League
2. Gulf Men’s Open League (featuring Royal Tuskers)
3. Gulf Men’s Social League
The Royal Tuskers will compete in the Gulf Men’s Social League, facing off against other teams divided into groups.
Team Leadership
The Royal Tuskers boast a strong leadership structure:
- Captain: Dayan Diddeniya
- Vice-Captain: Arshad Jamaldeen
- Coach: Mr. Jason Brown (Wales)
- Fitness Trainer: Sudesh Rohana
- Team Manager: Mr. Uthpala Ranatunga
Patron of Old Royalists in the U.A.E. (ORUAE), Mr. Danika Gamage along with President, Mr. Shihan Sheriff and Secretary, Mr. Shanaka Perera and the team also play vital roles in the team’s organisation and success.
Sponsorship Support
The Royal Tuskers’ journey to the Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s is made possible by the generous support of several sponsors:
- Premium Sponsor: Amal Events
- Platinum Sponsor: Spider Plus
- Main Sponsor: IMM Consult
- Digital Media Partner: ThePapare.com
- Additional Sponsors: Lion and Thambapanni Restaurant
A Testament to Alumni Spirit
The Royal Tuskers’ participation in this prestigious tournament is a testament to the enduring spirit of school alumni associations. Since its formation in 1999, this team has been a fixture in tag rugby and seven-a-side rugby events across the Emirates, embodying the passion and dedication of Old Royalists in the region.
As the Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s 2024 approaches, all eyes will be on the Royal Tuskers as they aim to leave their mark on this world-class tournament. Rugby enthusiasts and supporters of Sri Lankan sports are encouraged to follow the team’s journey and cheer them on during this exciting event.
For more information about the Royal Tuskers and their Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s campaign, please contact them via [email protected]
About Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s: The Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s is part of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series and is one of the most anticipated events in the global rugby calendar. Featuring world-class rugby action and a festival atmosphere, the tournament attracts thousands of visitors annually to the U.A.E.
About Royal Tuskers: The Royal Tuskers, representing the U.A.E.’s Old Royalists Rugby Team, is a Sri Lankan school alumni team based in the U.A.E. Committed to promoting rugby and fostering community spirit, the team has been an active participant in various rugby formats across the Emirates for over two decades.
