An unsavory predicament hangs over the Trinity camp ahead of the 72nd Bradby Shield with skipper Rahul Karunathilake having been shown the red card in the encounter against S. Thomas’ College last weekend at Pallekelle, which results in a one or two match ban.
The red card was a result of two successive infringements committed by Rahul in the game. The first infringement was a clear offside call and it was after referee Aruna Rankothge specifically instructed the Trinity captain to keep his team under control.
In the 25th minute of play, Rahul confronted a Thomian player not coming from his launching bay being a definite offside infringement and was given the first yellow card.
The second yellow was a high tackle on loose forward S. Thomas’ Sachitha Jayathileke in their attacking 22m and referee had no hesitation in showing the red card to the Trinity skipper.
The Trinity administration has formally appealed to the Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association for an inquiry and it will be held at Royal College tomorrow at 10.00 a.m. The hearing will decide as to whether the card is reversed or the match ban is reduced.
A similar instance occurred last season and it was Pandula De Silva of S. Thomas’ who was penalized. Two successive yellow cards led him to walk back to the spectator stands and later the decision was reversed and De Silva was cleared. The current Thomian skipper Pandula was caught offside in his first infringement and later was penalized for an unlawful tackle.
SLSRFA overturn S. Thomas Red Card
Rahul’s inclusion in the Bradby Shield encounter will be crucial for the Lions and Trinity without their skipper will be in heavy disadvantage as they travel to Reid Avenue in an attempt to win back the shield.
