Let’s take a closer look at the Vidyartha College, Kandy Rugby team that will be competing in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2024.
History
Since its introduction in 1960, Rugby at Vidyartha College has seen significant growth. The school’s commitment to the sport has been unwavering, resulting in a vibrant Rugby culture that has inspired many young players. Over the years, Vidyartha College has earned a reputation for producing top Rugby talent.
>>Dharmaraja College out to prove a point in 2024
In recent times, Vidyartha’s Rugby team, also known as ‘The Tigers’, has experienced a rollercoaster of performances. Promoted to the top division, they had a stellar season in 2022, securing the School’s Sevens title, narrowly missed a top 4 finish in the last game of the group stage. However, the momentum waned in 2023, with the team managing only two victories in a sub-par season.
Current Outfit
This year, hopes are high as Vidyartha College fields a formidable squad, led by center-three-quarter Gayan Perera. The team also boasts experienced Vice-Captain Deshan Balasooriya, who will partner with his skipper in the mid-field.
>>Kingswood determined to bring back lost glory
Earlier in the year, Vidyartha College clinched the Plate title of the Dialog Schools Rugby Sevens.
Players to Watch Out For
Apart from their mid-field combination of Gayan and Deshan, young tall second-row forward Ishara Dananjaya will be vital for their chances. Scrum-half Roshitha Malinga, as well as fly-half Rusith Thamodya, will be the players who will call the shots for the Vidyartha Tigers this season. Full-back Adithya Ranaweera will be the last line of defense, but will be lethal when he joins the attacking line.
Coaches
The Tigers are coached by Sumedha Malawana, an old boy of Vidyartha and a former Vice-Captain in 1998. Malawana brings a wealth of experience from his playing days with the Sri Lanka Navy and the national team, promising to impart invaluable knowledge to the squad.
His coaching philosophy focuses on discipline, strategic play and teamwork, which aligns perfectly with the team’s ambitions. Additionally, the team benefits from the presence of Kavindu Perera, an experienced player who has represented the national team and top clubs like Kandy SC and CR & FC.
Expectations for the season
Vidyartha has shown excellent performances in three friendly matches, showcasing their improved skills and tactical prowess. They will play the season opener and have been grouped in a tough segment.
>>A record 84 teams to compete at Dialog Schools Rugby League 2024
Despite the tough competition expected in the next seven weeks, this Vidyartha outfit has the talent and determination to pull off some upsets and make a significant impact. Out of the 7 games which could be decisive, they will have four matches being played at Nittawela Stadium.
This season, Vidyartha College is not just participating in the tournament; they are here to make a statement and carve their legacy in the annals of school Rugby.
Full Squad
Forwards – Mohammad Shakeek, Ishara Dhananjaya, Pasan Dullewa, Dilum Rajapakshe, Helana Wijethunga, Kevin Jayasinghe, Ashintha Sahan, Thisum Liyanage, Dinusha Ekanayake, Vihanga Sathsindu, Rajitha Praveenda, Sanmeth Adikari, Kavishka Welikadage, Janidu Warisadeera, Vimash De Silva, Migara Abeysinghe, Sajith Deshan, Diliru Ekanayake, Heshan Kapugoda, Janeesha Chandupa, Dineth Bandara, Ashen Gunathilake, Yoshitha Bandara Wickramanayake, Tehan Vinuvara Halewala
Backs – Gayan Perera (Captain), Deshan Balasooriya (Vice-Captain), Rusith Thamodya, Adithya Ranaweera, Roshitha Malinga, Tharusha Piyarathna, Praveen De Mel,
Pasindu Rajapakshe, Udana Nilshan, Pamuditha Narayana, Kenula Wijethunga, Mohommed Rashik, Hevin Keshan, Kavindu Hewage, Chamod Nirmal, Ishan Padamakumara, Dulen Prabashwara, Sithum Nethsara, Kalana Kaushika, Sadew Theekshana
>>Photos – Vidyartha College 1st XV Rugby Preview 2024
Fixtures
- Vs St. Joseph’s College – 14thJune at Havelock Park
- Vs Royal College – 23rdJune at Nittawela Stadium
- Vs Kingswood College – 28thJune at Bogambara Stadium
- Vs St. Peter’s College – 7thJuly at Nittawela Stadium
- Vs Zahira College – 13thJuly at Zahira Grounds
- Vs Thurstan College – 21stJuly at Nittawela Stadium
- Vs Wesley College – 28thJuly at Nittawela Stadium
