Greens lock horns with Thomians for Rizwi Suhayb Trophy

Saturday, 4 July 2026 05:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

Three traditional school rugby encounters are set to provide an exciting weekend of action, with the Riwi Suhayb Trophy, William Gopallawa Shield and Alles Cup all up for grabs.

The second edition of the Riwi Suhayb Trophy between Isipathana College and S. Thomas’ College will kick off at 4 p.m. today (4 July) at Havelock Park.

Isipathana, Captained by Shaakib Zumri, will start as favourites after competing in the Cup segment of the Dialog Schools Rugby League, while the Thomians, led by Mikaile Karunaratne, will be eager to prove a point after featuring in the Plate segment during the Super Round. With both sides possessing talented young players, an entertaining contest is expected.

Referee Kelum Sandaruwan will officiate the match.

At the Nittawela Rugby Stadium, Vidyartha will host Ananda in the 55th William Gopallawa Shield encounter, another fixture rich in tradition. Ananda competed in the Cup segment this season, while Vidyartha enjoyed an outstanding campaign by emerging champions in the 1B Division. Despite the difference in divisions, both teams have displayed quality rugby throughout the season, making this a difficult contest to predict.

Ishanka Abeykoon has been appointed referee.

The weekend’s action concludes on Sunday when D. S. Senanayake takes on St. Anthony’s in the second edition of the Alles Cup at Havelock Park. The Antonians finished their league campaign in the Plate segment, while D. S. Senanayake dropped into the Bowl segment after a challenging season. Both teams will view this encounter as an opportunity to finish their campaign on a winning note and lift a prestigious trophy.

Referee Aruna Shantha will be in charge of the match.