The Royal College outfit comes into this season following the loss of 8 players from last season. However, a promising group of youngsters is pipped to step up the plate.
Blast from the past
Royal College boasts a prestigious rugby history since it’s inception back in 1916. Four years down the line Royal took on Trinity College, a game that is played to date and famously known as the Bradby. The shield was introduced in 1945 by Royal College principal E. L. Bradby.
Royal managed to secure championships in 2011 and 2015 even though they failed to secure the Bradby shield in 2011 and had to settle to share the 2016 shield with Trinity.
Last Season
Royal College did not manage to match the feat of 2015 where they were placed unbeaten champions as the had to be content with a third place finish.
The team from Reid Avenue lost 8 players from last season but the experience of Ovin Askey will be looked up to this season as he looks to guide his team to match the 2015 team.
The Royalists had to share the Bradby shield last season even though they won the first leg at home.
Players to watch out for:
Captain and third year player, Ovin Askey will be a man to watch at fly half. He was entrusted with kicking duties last season scoring 47 points and will hope to repeat his feat this season. His experience from playing first team rugby over the past season will surely contribute to his leadership this season.
Number 8 Hamza Reeza will play a vital role from the tale of the scrum. He managed 4 tires last season and will no doubtedly aim to improve on that feat this season.
Lennox Calyaneratne will be another man in the back line to watch out for. He has been in the fringes of the 1st XV team and will look to add his impetus to the team this season. He will also look to lead the line from either first receiver of fullback.
Vice captain Sabith Feroze will be looked up to in the try scoring department. The winger has been in good touch for the Royalists the past couple of season and will aim to repeat his previous seasons this year around.
Coaching Staff
Sanath Martis – The veteran coach will continue at the helm at Royal. He will undoubtedly want to repeat what he did in 2015 and become champions.
Dushanth Lewke – former Royalist will continue as assistant coach, forwards coach and also as the trainer. He has done the pre-season training in the gym and at the grounds
Verdict for 2017
Royal College will feel the loss of players from last season but will hope their youngsters and seniors step up to the task at hand this season.
Squad 2017
