SL win both rugby encounters against Johor Malaysian Tigers outfit

Tuesday, 21 April 2026 01:15 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka’s extended national rugby pool delivered two commanding performances as the Sri Lanka ‘A’ side and President’s XV comfortably overcame the visiting Johor Malaysian Tigers outfit in their recent warm-up fixtures held at Welisara.

The opening encounter saw the Sri Lanka ‘A’ team produce a clinical display to register a convincing 45–12 victory. Combining structured forward dominance with sharp backline execution, the hosts controlled proceedings from the outset and maintained pressure throughout the game.

In the second match, the Sri Lanka President’s XV raised the bar even higher with an emphatic 60–07 win. The side showed superior fitness, tactical awareness, and finishing ability, overwhelming the Malaysian visitors in all facets of play.

Both matches served a greater purpose beyond the score-lines, as selectors closely evaluated player performances ahead of the upcoming national assignments. The games provided a valuable platform for emerging talent to stake their claim alongside experienced campaigners. These fixtures were specifically organised as part of the build-up to the anticipated tour involving the New Zealand Under-85kg team.

With matches scheduled in Colombo and Kandy, the selectors are expected to finalise a competitive national XV squad capable of matching the physicality and pace of the visitors as many as 10 players are on the injured list plus a few more opted only for the shorter version of the game. (SJ)