Sevens pool to be contracted shortlisted to 28

Wednesday, 8 April 2026 02:13 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

Sri Lanka Rugby has taken a step towards strengthening its Sevens program by shortlisting a pool of 28 players set to be contracted in the near future, with a clear focus on upcoming international assignments. The final numbers of contracting of players are yet to be decided.

The experienced Srinath Sooriyabandara, a former Isipathana College and Kandy SC is tipped to lead the national Sevens outfit. His leadership and experience are expected to play a crucial role as Sri Lanka prepares for a demanding calendar that includes the Asian Sevens Series legs in China and Sri Lanka, along with the highly looked forward Asian Games in Japan where Sri Lanka is eager to win a medal and the preparations commence well in advance for the Oct 2026 event.

The decision to contract a core group of players reflects a professional approach aimed at building consistency, improving fitness standards, and developing combinations ahead of major tournaments. Regular exposure and structured preparation will be key in elevating Sri Lanka’s performance levels.

Head Coach for the outfit will be selected by early May 2026 in order to commence training well ahead.

1 Srinath Sooriybandara

2 Kavindu Perera

3 Janidu Dilshan

4 Ravidu Anjula

5 Gamunu Chethiya

6 Chathura Soyza

7 Gayan Perera

8 Akash Madusanka

9 Dinal Ekanayake

10 Chemod Muthunayake

11 Aron Corera

12 Diluksh Dange

13 Jayathu Rajarathna

14 Denuwan Wickramarachchi

15 Devinda Rathnayake

16 Suranga Thennakoon

17 Maliksha Perera

18 Isuru Kongahawaththa

19 Arose Rathnayake

20 Naveen Marasinghe

21 Janith Marasinghe

22 Kavindu De Costa

23 Oliver Buckle

24 Aruna Perera

25 Shenal Uyangoda

26 Dimuth Perera

27 Ramitha Himasha

28 Koojana Kulathunga