So long Ratwatte

By Shamseer Jaleel

After nearly two decades of dedication to the oval shaped ball game, Sri Lanka and Kandy SC rugby captain Tarinda Ratwatte has called it a day marking the end of a remarkable chapter in local and international rugby.
He announced his decision to retire two days ago at a lunch hosted by Kandy SC, President, Mahesh Weerasinghe in Kandy.
Ratwatte began his rugby career at Under-12 for Trinity College in 2006 that culminated in the ultimate honour of leading his country an achievement that speaks volumes of his commitment, leadership and passion for the game. 
He led his school rugby outfit in 2014 and won the Rugby Lion.
Throughout his 10-year club career, Ratwatte represented two of Sri Lanka’s most prestigious clubs, CR and FC and Kandy Sports Club. Playing alongside some of the country’s finest athletes, he forged lifelong bonds and carved a legacy built on consistency, skill and unwavering dedication.
In an interview with the Daily Mirror, Ratwatte paid a tribute to the people who shaped his career, including the former Trinity rugby player Niranjan Ranasinghe who opened doors for him to experience rugby in New Zealand and his school coach Neil Foote who believed in his potential long before he became a household name. 
Though retiring as a player, Ratwatte hopes to stay connected to rugby whether through mentoring, coaching or even commentary ensuring that his experience, knowledge and love for the game continue to inspire future generations.