Sri Lanka looking to gain much from New Zealand series

By Shamseer Jaleel

The two-match rugby series between the New Zealand Under-85kgs team and Sri Lanka is expected to provide valuable international exposure for the local players ahead of a crucial regional campaign at the Asia Rugby Top 4 event later next month. 

The opening encounter will take place at the Racecourse Ground on April 25 under lights at 7 pm, while the second fixture is scheduled for May 3 at the Nittawela Stadium in Kandy, kicking off at 4 pm. Both venues are set to offer contrasting conditions, giving the hosts a well-rounded test.

History will be made as Lasindu Karunathilake becomes the first player from Science College to captain the Sri Lanka team. He will be assisted by Tharindu Chaturanga, the former Kingswood College and Kandy SC skipper, bringing leadership experience and composure to the side.

Sri Lanka Rugby president Pavithra Fernando emphasised that this series is part of a long-term vision, with plans to establish a reciprocal arrangement where Sri Lanka and New Zealand host each other in alternate years. 

Such initiatives are expected to strengthen international ties and raise the competitive standard of the local players. This will be discussed in detail after the two matches.

Karunathilake acknowledged a few injury concerns within the squad but remained confident in his team’s preparation. 

He noted that nearly ten players from last year’s tour have been retained, ensuring continuity and experience within the group. 

The captain expressed belief that the team will rise to the challenge and deliver strong performances saying that the forwards are an experienced lot but that the three-quarters though young have the potential to compete.

New Zealand U-85 kgs skipper Jared Percival said: “We are expecting a vicious forwards line from Sri Lanka but we are fully prepared to face it. We won’t take Sri Lanka lightly as last year too they put up a brave fight before going down in the end”.

With the Kiwis fielding a formidable squad that includes around 20 players from last year, the contests promise to be highly competitive. More importantly, the series serves as vital preparation for Sri Lanka ahead of the Asia Rugby Top 4 tournament, where they will face strong opposition in Hong Kong, South Korea and the UAE.