Wesley hold edge against Kingswood

Saturday, 16 August 2025 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

39th Blaze Trophy rugby encounter today

Kingswood skipper Thaveesha Ekanayake

Wesley skipper

Sandul Gamanpila

By Shamseer Jaleel

The much-anticipated 39th Blaze Trophy rugby encounter between Wesley College and Kingswood College is set to take place under lights at the CR and FC ground at Longdon place on 16 August.

Kick-off is at 6.30 p.m. Junior games will commence at 3 p.m.

Wesley will be captained by Sandul Gamanpila who led his side to a runner-up finish in the 2025 Schools Under-19 League Tournament. The Double Blues will look to continue their strong form and add another win to their Blaze Trophy record.

Kingswood, under the leadership of Thaveesha Ekanayake younger brother of Kandy SC and National winger, Dinal Ekanayake will be determined to produce an upset. Despite ending their league campaign in the middle part of plate segment, the lads from Randles Hill are known for their fighting spirit and rich rugby tradition.

Historically, Kingswood hold a commanding lead in the Blaze Trophy series, having won 23 encounters while Wesley have triumphed on 9 occasions. This adds an extra layer of motivation for the Colombo school to close the gap in the tally. Wesley will be defending the trophy which they won in 2024. This trophy encounter started in 1986 between the two Methodist schools.

Played under the lights for the first time the Blaze Trophy, added spectacle fans can expect a high-paced, entertaining contest with both sides eager to claim bragging rights.

Referee Ishanka Abeykoon will officiate this prestigious fixture.

Meanwhile S.Thomas will host St. Joseph’s College played for Lady Jayathilake Shield Rugby encounter which will take place at Mount Lavinia on 16 August.

Kick-off is at 4 p.m.

Thomians are leading the tally with 38 wins while Joes having won on 15 occasions while 2 encounters were drawn.

Referee will be Raveen Alexander.