Sri Lanka boosted by returning senior trio for Asia Rugby Sevens in Colombo

Monday, 13 October 2025 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Kavindu Perera to lead SL at second leg in Colombo

By Shamseer Jaleel

The second leg of the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series 2025 is set to light up the Racecourse Ground in Colombo on 18 and 19 October, featuring both the Men’s and Women’s segments, with Asia’s best battling for vital series points.

In the Men’s competition, Sri Lanka finds itself in a challenging Pool C alongside China, Uzbekistan, and Singapore, setting the stage for an action-packed weekend on home soil. The hosts are determined to make an impact after a promising showing in the first leg in China.

Adding strength and much-needed experience to the squad, Srinath Sooriyabandara, Heshan Jensen, and Diluksha Dange have returned to training and are available for selection. Their inclusion is expected to provide leadership and stability, particularly in high-pressure moments.

Veteran playmaker Sooriyabandara, known for his quick thinking and agility, will be crucial in directing play. Jensen, a powerful forward, brings physicality in defence and breakdowns, while Dange adds pace and attacking flair to the wings.

Former Vidyartha and Kandy star winger Kavindu Perera will lead the outfit, which will be at full strength.

The Sri Lanka Men’s team will lock horns on 18 October with Uzbekistan (12:40 p.m.), Singapore (5:04 p.m.), and China (9:50 p.m.), while the Women’s outfit will play Thailand (10:28 a.m.), Hong Kong China (3:14 p.m.), and Singapore (7:16 p.m.) before moving forward to the knockout stages on Day 2.