Tarinda leads depleted side against Korea

By: Shamseer Jaleel

Sri Lanka is set to begin their journey toward qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup with a crucial home fixture against South Korea tomorrow at the Racecourse ground in Colombo. 

Kick-off is scheduled for 4.00 p.m and despite facing significant injury concerns, hosts will aim to put on a spirited performance in front of their home crowd. 

The hosts are hampered by the absence of several key players. Seasoned campaigners Shaahid Zumri, Jayathu Rajarathna, Danushka Ranjan, and Nigel Ratwatte have all been ruled out due to illness while Janidu Dilshan has not attended recent training sessions, further complicating the selection process. 

The coaching staff, led by a New Zealand head coach, Rodney Gibbs will be supported by experienced locals Dushanth Lewke and Lasintha de Costa as they attempt to rally the squad for a vital opening clash. Despite the setbacks, Sri Lanka has named a competitive 24-man squad that blends youth and experience. 

Tarinda Ratwatte will lead the side, backed by notable names like Vimukthi Gamage, Thanuja Jayaweera, and Heshan Jansen. 

Adam Gauder who represented CH in the league is also in the squad of 24. Dinal Ekanayake too will add electrifying speed for the three quarter line. 

Real shock of selectors being the dropp of Nizran Nilar of Sri Lions who was part of the New Zealand Under 85 kg encounters and the Malaysian game. 

Further the squad which was sent to Ministry of Sports for approval was released only yesterday. 

Meanwhile, South Korea arrived in Colombo two days ahead of the fixture and have been actively preparing with high-intensity training sessions. Known for their pace and structured gameplay, the Korean side will be no easy opponents, and they enter the match as favorites based on recent form and world ranking. 

This fixture marks the beginning of the Asian qualifiers for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, to be held in Australia. For Sri Lanka, a strong start will be crucial if they hope to progress through the regional qualification rounds. With the team eager to make an impact and the crowd expected to turn out in full support, tomorrow’s encounter promises a passionate and high-stakes contest. 

Sri Lanka Squad: Vimukthi Gamage, Senura Perera, Thanuja Jayaweera, Dilshan Jaya, Pulasthi Dissanayake, Venura Kodagoda, Shenal Adikaram, Nareen Marasimghe, Thilina Bandara, Lahiru Thilakaratne, Chathuranga Soysa, Tharindu Chathuranga, Lasindu Karunathilake, Dahan Wickremarachchi, Mohamed Rifan, Tarinda Ratwatte (captain), Heshan Jensen, Thenuka Nanayakkara, Hirantha Perera, Akash Madushanka, Adam Gauder, Dinal Ekanayake, Pasindu Bandara and Mursheed Doray. 

Referee: J.P. Clement (UAERF)