Let’s take a closer look at the S. Thomas’ College Rugby team competing in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2024.
History
On June 25th, 1955, S. Thomas’ College formed their first-ever rugby team at school, and the team was led by K. S. Anandan. From there onwards, St. Thomas’ College has had a long Rugby tradition, but things did not always go as planned. They have dominated at times, especially in the 1970s, when they were renowned for their decisive wins. However, they now have more fierce competition to contend with.
They still have a solid Rugby program with a good mix of established and up-and-coming players, but they will need to maintain their focus if they want to relive their previous successes. S. Thomas’ has won the Schools League Championship 4 times and the Knockout Championship 5 times. The last League Championship was clinched by the Captain, Gavin Jayasekara in 2000.
Current Outfit
It will be quite an interesting team composition as S. Thomas’ College has a well-balanced team comprising seniors and juniors. Most of the players are young and can play 2 or 3 years in the squad in the future, but their experience gained from the previous seasons will be a crucial factor for them as they will be using it as a strategy in every game.
Players to Watch out for
Skipper Yehan Bulathsinhalage who was the top points scorer for S. Thomas’ College last year, with 55 points, will once again look to use his massive right boot to convert all points possible. His booming kicks and powerful runs, coupled with his leadership qualities, could propel the Thomians to new heights in 2024.
Vice-Captain for S. Thomas’ College, Akesh Fernando, will play in the second-row position, and he will be the main man for the team when it comes to the forwards. This powerhouse will inspire the young forwards, while his defensive solidity will be crucial in keeping opponents at bay.
Coaches
Anuranga Walpola started to coach the Thomians this year with high expectations. The Head Coach’s visionary year plan molded these young lads to become their best form ahead of the season.
Alongside Walpola, Dev Anand is their Assistant Coach & Kicking Coach, while Dinesh Kumara acts as the Assistant Coach & Trainer. Furthermore, Sachitha Jayathilaka and Dion Diaz, the two old boys are working hand in hand with the coaching panel to help Thora’s grit prevail in the Rugby field as well.
Expectations for the Season
S. Thomas’ will start their campaign with a tough fixture in Kandy, which could determine their chances of securing a place in the Super Round phase. Beating some of their main arch-rivals will be on top of their priority list for the School by the Sea.
With a balanced squad of experienced seniors and young talent, S. Thomas’ College Rugby could be poised for a historic season, if they can stay cool under pressure against established top-tier teams.
Full Squad
Forwards – Akesh Fernando (Vice Captain), Reshane Dwight, Kaveesh Lenagala, Meon Ranjithsingh, Tieshya Aluwihra, Sithil Perera, Shalyn wanigasooriya, Eyan Pereira, Yenuka Bopearachchi, Panduka Jayasena, Rometh Wijesinghe, Zayan Hameed, Shaveen Gooneratne, Mckyle Karunaratne, Jehan Wanigasooriya, Rehaan Jayaweera, Vishwa Ariyawansa, Jeison Gnanadass, Amaan Imran, Shevin Udugama, Dehan Senaratne, Muadh Kaleel
Backs – Yehan Bulathsinhalage (Captain), Venuka Wickramasuriya, Jehan Jayasinghe, Seneshka Liyanagunawardana, Pujana Kasthuriarachchi, Akith Cooray, Chamod Perera , Chanuth Eheliyagoda, Mayanka Dias, Udan Bulathsinhalage, Archer Mendis, Joel Cameron
Fixtures
- Vs Trinity College – 15th June at Pallekelle
- Vs St. Anthony’s College – 22nd June at S.Thomas’ Grounds
- Vs Science College – 30th June at Air Force Grounds
- Vs Isipathana College – 06th July at Havelock Park
- Vs D. S Senanayake College – 13th July at S.Thomas’ Grounds
- Vs Sri Sumangala College – 20th July at S.Thomas’ Grounds
- Vs Dharmaraja College – 28th July at S.Thomas’ Grounds
