Rajans promoted to 1A Rugby in 2027

Friday, 19 June 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

Dharmaraja College have sealed promotion to the Dialog Schools Under-19 Division 1A Rugby Championship for the 2027 season after producing an outstanding unbeaten campaign in the Division 1B tournament.

Under the guidance of Head Coach Chanaka Bandara, the Rajans emerged as one of the most dominant teams in the competition, combining powerful forward play with an exciting attacking style. Their consistency throughout the season made them deserving candidates for promotion to Sri Lanka’s premier schools rugby division.

Dharmaraja recorded several emphatic victories, including a crushing 62-3 win over Nugawela Central and a 55-17 triumph against St. Benedict’s College. They also overcame St. Thomas’ College, Matale, 33-22 and registered an impressive 31-17 victory over Maliyadeva College.

Their fixture against Rahula College, Katugastota, was abandoned due to inclement weather, but the Rajans had already raced to a commanding 35-0 lead after only 20 minutes, underlining their dominance.

Captain Gayan Samarathunga led the side admirably throughout the season, with vice-captains Thiwanka Jayasundara and Pawan Manodya providing excellent support.

Dharmaraja will conclude their successful campaign against Vidyartha College on 20 June at the Trinity College Rugby Stadium in Pallekele before preparing for the challenge of Division 1A rugby in 2027.