Algama and Daluwatte in sublime form for finals

Reshan Algama / Kaya Daluwatte

By Shamseer Jaleel

Two top class junior golfers in the country, Reshan Algama and Kaya Daluwatte both were in sensational form booking their final berth on the third day of the Rukmini Kodagoda Trophy 2025, conducted by Sri Lanka Golf as spectators witnessed some of the finest match-play golf ever seen at the Royal Colombo Golf Club. 

In the Gold Division, all eyes were on Sri Lanka’s two world-ranked junior golfers, Algama and Daluwatte, both of whom justified their reputation with top class performances in their semi-final victories to earn their spots in the finals.
Reshan was pushed to the limit by the ever-improving Jacob Norton. Despite Norton’s valiant effort, Algama showed his championship experience to edge through with a 2/1 victory. 

In the girls’ Gold Division, Kaya Daluwatte continued her unbeaten run, defeating Keya Abhayaratne with a composed 5/4 win, displaying the poise and power that made her one of Sri Lanka’s brightest hopes.

Aaraadhi Samararathne beat Anumi Karunathilake in the 19th hole.

However, the biggest shock of the day came in the Boys’ Gold Division semi-final, where Thangadorai Deshan pulled off a major upset by eliminating the talented Adhithiya Weerasinghe, a pre-tournament favourite. Deshan’s gritty 1-up win has earned him a berth in the final against Algama, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.

In the Gold Division Black tee Ayaan Gunasekera beat Akein Subasinghe 5/4 while AA Amarasinghe beat the much fancied Kian Niyarepola 2-up.

In the Silver Division (boys), Lavindu Premarathna earned a well-fought 5/3 victory over Rashwitha Bandara, while Thejas Rathiskanth staged a brilliant turnaround to overcome Shwaas Chakravarthy from the United States of America 3/2.

In the Silver Division White tee Thisara Wageesha beat Divyeshz Silva 3/2 while Vihaga Liyanage beat Yonal Ranasinghe 12/3.

The Girls’ Silver Division final will feature Kaitlyn Norton, who stormed past Genuli Weerakoon with a dominant 8/6 win against Sithara!orance who edged out Nimasha Iddamalgoda 5/4.

In the Bronze Division (boys), the final is set between the versatile Reevan Amarasinghe, who defeated Danik Daluwatte 5/3 and the impressive Yuvan Rathiskanth who got past Yogaraja Abinesh 4/3.

The Girls’ Bronze Division final sees Thisarani Herath, known for her discipline and determination beat Fatima Zeeniya 4/2 and take on Minnelli Herat who got the better of Hesandi Gayansa 1-up.

The Copper Division (boys) final is shaping up to be an exciting clash between Abhiman Abeywardena and Ryan Advik from India, both of whom have made their mark with mature performances well beyond their years.

In the Girls’ Copper Division, Subanya Kangara will face Dinara Perera, while Ananya Kisnthan is set to play Kyra Cader with all four semifinalists having demonstrated exceptional promise, sportsmanship and competitive spirit throughout the tournament.

This prestigious tournament, held in honour of the late Rukmini Kodagoda, continues to uphold and celebrate the values of excellence, perseverance, and youth development in golf. Her legacy lives on through the spirit of competition and opportunity showcased each year.

This dedication has been deeply reinforced by the long-standing sponsorship of Perera and Sons Bakers who have supported the Rukmini Kodagoda Trophy for over a decade. Their investment has been particularly impactful in nurturing the youngest age groups most notably the Copper and Bronze divisions.

Perera and Sons Bakers sponsorship has not only created a solid foundation for talent development but also inspired a cycle of excellence and aspiration among Sri Lanka’s young golfers. 

As the finals tee off on Day 4, the Rukmini Kodagoda Trophy 2025 stands as a proud celebration of both tradition and the bright future of Sri Lankan golf.