Police won’t hide player exits

They were once a formidable force in the 1980s only to be broken by an influx of Fijian professionals in rival teams, but Police Sports Club will make no secret of losing any of their players from last season. 

They will take on CH and FC in their opening game on November 16.

While senior campaigner Shanaka Harishchandra has been named as the captain, Sujan Kodithuwakku will be his deputy with Chandralal Samarakoon who has been around for a long time with Police as their head coach for the season. 

“Akash Madushanka, Lahiru Thilakarathna, Amjad Faumi, Shane Hopwood and Yehan Bulathsinghalage are not attending regular training sessions among other players.

“We would also like to clarify that these players do not have official permission to represent any other rugby club during this period,” Samarakoon told the Daily Mirror. 

Having not being a part of the Police rugby team last year, Samarakoon believes being able to coach at this level is both a privilege and responsibility. 

“Coaching rugby at the highest level in Sri Lanka is both a privilege and a responsibility. The game is growing rapidly and there’s a lot of raw talent across the country. 

“At this level, it’s not just about skills and strategy, but also about leadership, discipline and building a strong team culture. As a coach, I see it as an opportunity to develop players who can represent Sri Lanka with pride and to contribute to raising the overall standard of rugby in the country. 

“It challenges me to stay updated, work closely with support staff and always bring out the best in the players — both on and off the field,” said Samarakoon, a former scrum-half. 

Police are yet to add a senior player to their team but they have signed up Danushka Perera for the upcoming season and are giving thought to include players from the top-tier school teams.

Danushka is from Prince of Wales College who represented Air Force last year.

“This is a notable addition to the squad, further strengthening the team with his experience at the club level,” Samarakoon revealed. 

Police have seen some of their players going on to represent Sri Lanka in the past couple of years and Samarakoon believes that the law-enforcement entity played a significant role in developing their game. 

“Playing with the Police team has allowed these players to be involved in higher numbers of competitive matches. The reason they have reached those positions, I firmly believe is through their own talent and hard work. But I must also say Police played a significant role in creating that pathway for them,” Samarakoon explained.

He believes that his team has what it takes to land a trophy this season. 

“In the 2025/26 rugby season, three tournaments are scheduled. The League tournament, the Knockout tournament and the 7-a-side tournament. My expectation is to win at least one of these tournaments. I strongly believe that everyone will be able to witness a successful and competitive season from Police”, he said.