Royal launch new rugby season

By Shamseer Jaleel

Royal College officially launched its 2026 rugby season with firm backing from a powerful lineup of sponsors, reinforcing its reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s premier school rugby institutions. 

Leading the sponsorship drive, Brandix has come on board as the Platinum sponsor, showing strong confidence in the Reid Avenue outfit along with many other sponsors propping up the outfit.

The much-anticipated inter-school Under-19 tournament will be worked off with Royal hosting Science College on April 26. The Reid Avenue camp is buzzing with expectations as the side looks to reclaim the league title after a seven-year drought.

This season carries added weight for Royal, highlighted by the historic 80th Bradby Shield encounter against Trinity College. With tradition and pride at stake, Royal will be eager not only to defend the shield but also to stamp their authority in the schools rugby arena once again.

Royal will host five key home games at home taking on Science College, Zahira College, S. Thomas’ College, Isipathana College and Trinity in the first leg of the 80th Bradby Shield. 

Their away encounters will make them travel to face Thurstan College, Kingswood College and Trinity in the second leg of the Bradby Shield, making it a demanding yet exciting campaign.

The team is led by dynamic number eight Disas Pathirana, with Savisha Fernando serving as vice-captain. Head coach Bhanuka Nanayakkara, alongside forwards coach Azmir Fajudeen will guide the squad through the season.

Royal head into the new season with momentum, having finished runners-up to Trinity in the recent President’s Trophy knockout tournament.