Stage set for Plantation Sevens

At the Plantation Sevens launch: from left-Ravindra Sannasuriya (Secretary-DMCC), Manjula Samarakoon (vice president and rugby convenor (DMCC), Lalindra Abayawardana (president DMCC), Upul Thalagala (consultant BC AgroTronics), Malinda Perera (general manager BC Agro Tronics) and Kumar Barathi (deputy general manager BC Agro Tronics)
Pic by Pradeep Dilrukshana

By Shamseer Jaleel

The 24th inter plantation rugby Sevens is set to once again unite the plantation community in a vibrant celebration of sport and camaraderie when it kicks off at Darawela in Dickoya on April 4. 

With matches scheduled to begin from 8 am, the one-day tournament promises a thrilling show of fast-paced Sevens rugby blended with a festive carnival atmosphere unique to the hill country.

Played for the Bartleet Meyer Trophy, the tournament has, over the years, evolved into a flagship event in the plantation sporting calendar. It continues to draw enthusiastic support from across the region, highlighting both competitive rugby and community spirit.

The Cup championship, the most sought-after title, will see defending champions Malwatte Valley Plantations return to safeguard their crown after an impressive performance last year.

Talawakelle Tea Estates, who finished as runners-up, will be eager to go one step further this time and dethrone the defending champions.

In the other segments, Maskeliya Plantations enter as Plate champions, while Elpitiya Plantations hold the Bowl title. Kotagala and Agrapathana Plantations will defend the Shield Championship.

This year’s event will be graced by chief guest Menaka Athukorala, Managing Director and CEO of Hatton Plantations. The involvement of well-known figures such as Mark Direkze and Channa de Costa further enhances the stature of the tournament.

Former Ananda College rugby player Manjula Samarakoon will serve as Tournament Director, with Lalindra Abeywardena heading the organizing committee as club president.

Nine teams are set to compete this year and plans are already underway for next year’s Silver Jubilee edition, which is expected to include South Asian planter teams.