Big day for Sumangala against Trinity

By Shamseer Jaleel

Defending schools League rugby champions, Trinity College will lock horns with Sumangala College Kandy in their encounter at the Nittawela Stadium today with kick-off scheduled for 4 pm. 

Rugby fans can expect an exciting contest between two sides who have enjoyed impressive starts to the new season with both outfits moving into the game unbeaten after their first two encounters.

Trinity have already stamped their authority in the tournament with two commanding victories over Lumbini College and St. Anthony’s College. They crossed the 50-point mark in both outings and will head into this encounter full of confidence.

They possess a powerful all-round combination led by Shan Althaf with deputy skipper Udan Wijekoon, Ammar Manzil and Minula Yaddehige who have all produced standout performances in the opening weeks. Their strong forwards domination and speedy three-quarter line have made them one of the most dangerous outfits in the competition.

But Trinity cannot take Sumangala lightly after they recorded impressive wins against Science College and DS Senanayake College. They showed tremendous fighting spirit and consistency in both matches.

Sumangala will rely much on skipper and scrum-half Shashika Bandara to control proceedings. He has strong support from key players Achila Gamage, Tharusha Dilshan and Pasidu Samarakoon, all of whom have displayed excellent form this season. 

The side is coached by former Kingswood and Sri Lanka player Malith Hettiarachchi, whose experience has greatly boosted the team.