Central Kings reign supreme on opening day

• Carlton Super Sevens – Kandy

By Milinda Gunawardena
The Central Kings led by Fazil Marija were the undisputed stars on the first day of the Carlton Super Sevens winning all four matches and staying unbeaten.
The relatively young side led by Kandy SC star Marija ended proceedings of the day ahead of all other teams in the tournament.
The opening match of the day was played between the Sabaragamuwa Stallions and the Western Warriors led by Dushanth Lewke. The match ended in favour of the Sabaragamuwa Stallions led by Saliya Hadpangoda 35-7 in a rather one-sided encounter.
From then on the crowd was treated to a fine display of sevens rugby as the inclusion of the foreign players clearly enhanced the standard of rugby played during the day. It was certainly a positive sign for Sri Lanka Rugby to see most young players rising up to the occasion to compete at higher level.
Stand out performances were delivered by youngsters  Srinath Sorriyabandara, Sajith Saranga, Yoshitha Rajapakse,Kanchana Ramanyake, Sharo Fernando and Vishwamithra Jaysinghe, amongst the senior players Fazil Marija, Dilip Selvam and Mohammed Jabar had a good day and the school boys form Kingswood – twins Oshan and Lavanga Perera and  Peterite winger Sandun Herath impressed on the first day.
Proceedings will resume today at 9.50 am as the crowds look forward to a more competitive second day at the Bogambara stadium in Kandy. Results of games played on Saturday:
Sabaragamuwa Stallions (35) beat Western Warriors (7). Central Kings (36) beat Eastern Eagles (7). North Central Typhoons and  Northern Gladiators drawn (21-21), Jaffna Challengers beat North Western Blacks (22-12),Uva Vipers beat Sabaragamuwa Stallions (19-12),Eastern Eagles beat Western Warriors (20-12),Northern Gladiators beat Southern Sharks (31-7),North Central Typhoons beat Jaffna Challengers (36-12),Central Kings beat Uva Vipers (45-26),Eastern Eagles beat Sabaragamuwa Stallions  (22-14),Southern Sharks beat North Western Blacks (21-14), Northern Gladiators beat Jaffna Challengers (24-14)


 Sunday 30th October, 2011 - The Sunday Leader

Isipathana runners-up - President trophy 2011

It was down to a battle between the Trinity forwards and the Isipathana three-quarters from the outset of the game but the Pathana forwards took the game to the Trinity pack and dominated the scrums and the line outs right through the course of the game. The Isipathana coach Viraj Prasanna came out with some good tactical moves to stop the Lions in their tracks in the set pieces.

Trinity took the early lead in the contest through a Rehan Weerakoon penalty when an Isipathana player was caught handling in the ruck. The cool headed Weerakoon had no problem with the three pointer to send the Lions in front. Isipathana then got the chance to equalize through the boot of skipper Devinda Prasad but he failed to convert.

The Trinity center combination of Dilshan Kalaniyagoda and Kanil Seneviratne showed what they were capable of as they put on some hard runs for the Kandy team. Seneviratne in particular gave a lot of stick to his opposite number as he ran hard at good angles to take the Lions over the gain line.Weerakoon then had the opportunity to extend the lead with another tough penalty and sent the kick over the sticks for the joy of many Trinity supporters present at the Royal Complex.

Pathana with some good flowing rugby then scored through skipper Prasad off a set move to take the lead with the conversion coming from Shanaka Kumara. Prasad getting the ball after a forward hit on the left corner came in as first receiver to hop his way over for the first try of the game. Isipathana leading 7-6. 

Trinity was quick to take the lead again through a try from Dilshan Kalaniyagoda. Scrum half Sanjaya Somasiri taking a quick tap passed the ball to Weerakoon who skip-passed to Thisala Devinda who took on two defenders before offloading to Kalaniyagoda to score their first try. With that score the Lions went in to half time with a 4 point lead 11-7

The second half saw some fierce battles upfront with Isipathana taking it forward through their number eight Prasad Madushanka. He together with flanker Sajid Suhaib had an admirable outing in the loose for Pathana.



Referee Irshad Carder felt the pressure of the finals as he had a shocker of a game making plenty of errors in both halves of the game. Many scoring opportunities were lost for both teams due to this and they had to toil even harder to get points on the board. Trinity made inroads to the Pathana half again through their hard hitting three's which resulted in young winger Thisala Devinda going over for a valuable try. The big-made winger powered his way through a couple of defenders to score and extend the lead for Trinity. The Lions siege ahead with this try but there was still some fight left in the Pathana lad’s especially full back Shanaka Kumara who had an excellent outing. The small made full back was hit hard by the Trinity players but still managed to get back on his feet and take it forward for Isipathana.

Randhika Alwis then finished things off for the Lions with a forceful try to take it beyond the Pathanians. There was however a late rally by Pathana but they could not breach the impressive Trinity defense.
Devinda Prasad must be kicking himself as he gave away valuable possession by just kicking aimlessly in to the hands of the Trinity backline who counter attacked with a lot of purpose.

The final whistle signaled a Trinity win after 18 year last winning in 1993 under Nalin Muhandiramge where they tamed the same opposition 17-10 . It was a magical moment for Trinity and a super end for an exciting schools season.

Friday 30th September, 2011 - The Papare

re-edited by sameera

Sri Lanka can hit the top in sevens rugby

It was the Scots who took credit for starting sevens rugby. But just when it began is unclear. As a game it was used for many pre-season tournaments but hardly figured in the fixture lists of most countries. 

Tokkie Smith, a South African residing in Hong Kong had the idea of an International tournament in what was then a British Colony. Hong Kong is renowned for entrepreneurs, people who like to take risks to make something grow. 

Hongkong rugby at that time, there was an abundance of them and the Hong Kong sevens grew from a tiny tournament in 1976 to the giant rugby sevens that hosted the 1997 Rugby World Cup 7s and was worth millions in revenue to the Hong Kong sevens. 

Sevens rugby was born in 1883 in Scotland and it was decided after the formation of the Scottish Union. Melrose, a little town in the South Scotland, better known as the Scottish border was the birth place of seven-a-side rugby. 

It is said that Melrose Club, had a good rugby side in which the star players were local butchers, David Sanderson and his apprentice Ned Haig. It is said that the novelty, the skill and the flow of the game, inspired two eager Union officials of Hong Kong to replicate the event in the then Colony. 

The committee felt that given the numbers involved, the proposal of a football tournament was unworkable. The invitation that was received by the local union in late December 1975 was put to the monthly Union meeting and decided to accept the same and authorized the selection committee to pick a pool of players and appointed Kavan Rambukwella national player of great repute and administrator to handle matters. 

Meanwhile Allen G. Roche, a rugby coach from England visited the country in early 1976 on a coaching assignment to brush up the finer points of the game of the National team. Preparations started in 1976 for the Hong Kong tournament scheduled for March 28, 1976. 

Right from the inception controversy aroused, disputes between Ministry of Sports and governing body, resignations of selectors, withdrawal of selected players etc. were common features. 

Acting on the Ministry directives SLRFU appointed Kavan Rabukwella as the Manager of the team and the squad comprised -from Indrajith Coomarasamy Captain (CR & FC), Lanil Tennakoon (Havelocks S.C.), Mohan Balasuriya (Sri Lanka Air Force), Dr. Maiya Gunasekera (University Colombo Campus), G. Gunadasa (Sri Lanka Army), Jeffrey de Jong (Havelocks), Ronald Rodrigo (Sri Lanka Air Force), Shaan Ching (CH & FC). 

The inaugural Hong Kong 7s tournament was a single day affair with 12 countries participating on March 28, 1976 at the Hong Kong Football Stadium. Ching had a problem of getting his passport and failed to make it.

At the last moment Sri Lanka Air Force stand off M. Omerdeen was called in as replacement. It was a moment of truth for Sri Lanka players against the mighty Japanese RFU who were making great strides in the International arena. 

Placed in Pool C - and beaten by Singapore by 0-22 followed by Japan 0-32, Sri Lanka had to bow out of the main competition. Next Sri Lanka confronted Indonesia and registered its first ever success in the tournament with a 14-0 victory. Moving on to the semi-finals they lost to Tonga by 0-16 in a match which could have gone either way. 

Sri Lanka's finest year in the sevens was in 1984, when we won the Bowl championship, in the Hong Kong Sevens. We were able to beat Brunei 26-0 in the semis and 16-0 beat Thailand in the finals.

Then again in 1986 and 1987 we entered the bowls finals. In 1998 we became the bowl champions in the Fiji Invitation Sevens played in Suva. 

Historically, seven-a-side rugby has been played for over a century for fun and entertainment at the beginning and the end of a gruelling 15-a-side season. In recent years, the launch of the RWC 7s in 1993 and the creation of the IRB Sevens Grand Prix series in 1999 saw the game of sevens established at an elite level, independent sport. 

Since the inception of the IRB sevens five years ago, nearly 50 Nations have played in the Grand Prix tournaments hosted so far by 16 countries in all five IRB regions. 

The 2003/2004 IRB Sevens has been the most competitive in the short history of the series. Sri Lanka RFU is proud to have hosted the 2004 RWC Qualifier for the Asian Region organized by the Kandy Sports club from September 10 to 12, 2004 at Nittawela Rugby Stadium, Kandy.

The teams that participated in this tournament were all National teams from the following countries - Japan, Korea, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, China, Arabian Gulf, Kazakhstan, Guam, India and Sri Lanka. 

Mark Egan - Manager International Rugby Sevens IRB was the official representative of the IRB with several officials from the Asian Rugby Football Union, IRB Media, IRB Development Officials, International Panel Referees were hosted by the Organizers during the conduct of this tournament. 

Sri Lanka was successful in winning the Plate Championship against the National teams of the Asian region.

Rugby Football in Sri Lanka has a unique attraction for players keen to share the magic atmosphere and to compete at the highest levels The high level of exposure for the sport globally and in the participating countries cannot be over-estimated. 

A direct link between inclusion in the Asian Region Rugby tournaments has seen a significant increase in the development from grassroots level. Rugby now has a good profile within the Asian region assisted by the recommendation from the IRB and the support of members of the ARFU itself. 

However, there is still much work to be done if rugby is to become a National sport and the SLRFU is working on a promotional strategy, which will eventually lead to the rugby's full acceptance as a major sporting event in Sri Lanka next to Cricket. 

Today the two most popular Sevens tournaments in the world are the Hong Kong and Dubai Sevens.

The game is cherished as a sport for people of all ages, gender, race and creed and develops team values, understanding, co-operation and respect for fellow rugby players. 

It has great educational values and is part of the schools curriculum in many countries, being played by boys and girls short and tall, large and small. Over here the much looked forward sevens tournaments are the Club 7s and schools 7s, later in 1999 the Singer SriLankan Airlines sevens (International) organized by Kandy Sports Club under the auspices of the governing body SLRFU with both IRB & ARFU support. 

Unfortunately now this tournament is being shown the exit door. Now the 'Carlton Sevens' has come to stay. The Isipathana sevens at one time started off well but due to some problems, this tournament went out of the window. 

Sevens is basically an abbreviated version of rugby union, played with seven players rather than the usual 15.

The size of the field is not reduced; the extra space that is available usually leads to frantic high scoring affairs over the course of games usually 14 minute duration, although some matches later in the tournament do last longer. 

While fundamentally being the same as its big brother, rugby sevens dispenses with much of the brute force and concentrates on fast breaks and generally a score, on average, every three minutes.

Sevens rugby like T-20 cricket a 7-a-side football has a huge spectator interest. Rugby in our country is a legacy of the British. 

The records say that the first game was played in Sri Lanka, way back in 1879 when the Ceylon Rugby Football Union was born along with the famous Up-Country Low Country encounter 'Capper Cup' which was last played in 1973. 

A Police Officer by the name of K.F. Jenkins, a Welshman, stationed in Ratnapura was the man who introduced Sevens rugby to Sri Lanka in 1931. The first ever sevens game was played at the Ratnapura Esplanade, which was kicked off at 7 a.m., it was played in a very simple manner.

The man who introduced the game played as scrum half for the Police side. Our first involvement in a sevens tournament was in 1949 when the Ceylon Babarians took part in the All-Indian tournament held in Colombo. 

Then in 1958 Colombo was also the venue of the B.I. Centenary All Indian tournaments.

Then two of the pioneer Sevens tournaments in our country in the days gone by were the Layards Cup and the CR & FC Invitation tournament. 

In 1947 CR & FC celebrated their 25th anniversary with a sevens tournament. For the first time in 1975, The Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union conducted a inter club sevens tournament and the Havelocks Sports Club emerged as champions, and became the first winners of the Sri Lanka Sevens, like they won the first interclub competition in 1950. 

Where will the Rugby Sevens go from here? Rugby experts of the calibre of some top class sevens players, former National coaches like Nimal Leuke ex DIG and Asanga Senaviratne are confident that with the right approach Sri Lanka rugby can always get to the pinnacle of the sport in the Asian region. 

It's time that the Rugby Union got all rugby sevens experts in the Island and even get International famous experts and work out 'Aims and Strategy' to put sevens rugby on the map once again in the Asian region educating all players. 

We have some top sevens players, who can be rated as best in the Asian Region. 

Saturday 01st October, 2011 - Daily News

Isipathana - Trinity final should be a thriller

The confrontation between Isipatana College, Colombo and Trinity College, Kandy in the Milo President’s Trophy final at the Royal Sports Complex at 4.30 pm today should turn out to be a thriller.

With both teams boasting of powerful packs and speedy sets of three quarters a terrific tussle for supremacy can be expected. Isipatana is enjoying a wonderful season having emerged runners-up in the Singer ‘A’ Division League losing just one match (10-11) to eventual champions Royal. The Trinitians came up with some superb performances in the latter part of the league tournament to finish in third position despite losing three matches. 

Isipatana entered the final with a runaway 47-0 win over Kingswood in the semi-finals while the Trinitians stormed into the final with smashing wins over Dharmaraja (54-17) and St. Peter’s (32-14) in the quarter and semi-final respectively. 

Trinity skipper Murad Ramzeen has led the side admirably and has been a source of inspiration to his teammates with his fiery loose play and has been ably supported by Ravi Bandara, Randika Alwis, Savinda Unamboowe, Uchitha Weerakoon, Sachintaka Perera and the omnipresent No 8 Sean Foster but today they will be confronted by equally good forwards in Saajid Suhayb, Kumindra Dharmadasa, Ganidu Weerasinghe, Arun Kumar, Nipuna Devendra and the indefatigable hooker Prasad Madusanka. 

In Sanjaya Somasiri and Rehan Weerakoon the Trinitians have a superb halves combination with Rehan Weerakoon’s daring breaks having the opponents defence in disarray. In Dilshan Kalaniyangoda and Kanil Seneviratne the Trinitians have two hard running centres who are capable of tearing apart the Isipatana defence. The biggest threat to the Isipatanians could be posed by that powerful runner on the wing in Mohamed Seshan while full back Dinuk Nayakaratne has the knack of joining the line to form the overlap. 

Isipatana’s ‘threes’ too have played a key role in their success this season. The halves combination of Kavindu de Costa and skipper Prasad Devinda have hit it off smoothly. Devinda has the ability to pick the tiniest of gaps while his long kicks to touch have given them territorial advantage. Centres Ashan Gallage and Sharmal Chathuranga have time and again pierced the opponents defence with their deceptive runs while Mekalanka Pramoda is likely to test the Trinity defence to the hilt with his daring runs on the wing in addition to attacking full back Shanaka Kumara. 

Isipatana will strive to break the 10 year hoodoo having last won the President’s Trophy in 2001 under Ranga Perera while Trinity will aim to lay their hands on the trophy for the first time since the inception of the tourney in 1995. 

Isipatana - Udaya Kumara, Prasad Madusanka, Thusitha Mithraratne, Arun Kumar, Ganidu Weerasinghe, Kumendra Dharmadasa, Saajid Suhayb, Wasala Wimalaweera, Kavindu de Costa and Prasad Devinda (Captain), Shenal Dias, Ashan Gallage, Sharmal Chathuranga, Mekalanka Pramoda, Shanaka Kumara.

Trinity - Murad Ramzeen (Captain) Ravi Bandara , Inzamam Mubarak, Sachinthake Perera, Randika Alwis, Uchintha Weerakoon, Savinda Unamboowe, Sean Foster, Sanjaya Somasiri and Rehan Weerakoon, Mohamed Seshan, Dilshan Kelaniyangoda, Kenil Seneviratne, Thisila Karunatilleke, Dinuck Nayakaratne. 

Referee: Irshad Cader 

Friday 30th September, 2011 - Daily news

Isipathana - Trinity in blockbuster finale today

All roads will lead to the Royal Sports Complex ground at Reid Avenue as titans Isipathana and Trinity clash in the final of the Milo Under 20 inter-schools rugby knockout tournament scheduled to be kicked off at 4.45 p.m. today. 

The battle is no doubt going to be a blockbuster with the two teams looking forward to end their schools rugby season on a winning note. Trinity will be coming into the game to avenge their 23-18 defeat to Isipathana in the league tournament match played at Pallekele. 

Isipathana seems to be in peak form at the moment. It is going to be a daunting task for the Trinitians who will have to put in an improved performance if they are to overcome the Havelock Park boys.

It’s going to be a battle between the speed of Isipathana and the mobile Trinity forwards. Isipathana will be at a big disadvantage as they would not have the services of prop forward Nipuna Devinda.

Nipuna according to sources met with a tragic accident when returning after a practice session. The burly youngster had been knocked down by a train and was lucky to escape with a shoulder and leg injury. He is at present undergoing treatment at the Kalubowila hospital and has been completely ruled out and his place will be taken by Udayakumara. 

For Trinity the game is going to be important as this is the first time that they have qualified for the President’s Trophy knockout final. They will go all out to make it a memorable one. Isipathana on the other hand have won the knockout title on so many occasions. 

The green jerseys last won the knockout title in 2001 and prior to that they won it in 1996, 1997 and 1999.

Nevertheless with the two teams expected to dish out rugby of a high standard the supporters of the two teams can expect their money’s worth and a fitting finale to the inter-schools rugby season of 2011.

The teams

Isipathana – Udayakumara, Prabath Madusanka, Thusitha Mithraratne, Arun Kumara, Gamindu Weerasinghe, Wasula Wimalaweera, Sajid Suhaib, Kavindu de Costa, Prasad Devinda (Capt), Shenal Dias, Shamal Chathuranga, Ashan Gallage, Mekalanka Pramoda, Shanaka Kumara, Sudeera Karunaratne, Tharindu Dissanayake, T. de Silva, T. Premaratne, Yadala Siriwardena, Malik Jumat, R. Manchana, Hirantha Perera, Usitha Prematileke, T. Hewage, Bhanuka Sarathchandra. 

Trinity – Inzamam Mubarak, Kevin Bandara, Murad Ramzeen (Capt), Hasitha Perera, Randika Alwis, Uchitha Weerakoon, Savinda Unamboowe, Sean Foster, Sanjaya Somasiri, Rehan Weerakoon, Kanil Seneviratne, Sashan Mohamed, K. Perera, Dilshan Kelaniyagoda, Thisila Karunatileke, Dinuk Nayakaratne, Anuradha Karunatileke, Thimira Galappaththige, I. Shehan, A. Perera, H. Badul, Kanishka Yatawara, Haliq Wadood, T. Ratwatte, M. Hettiarachchi, S. Singalaxshana and S. Sheik.

Friday 30th September, - Daily mirror

Rampant Isipathana run riot

President Trophy Semi Finals - Isipathana vs Kingswood

On a day three pointers were wiped out of the scorecard, Isipathana College romped home to a comprehensive 47-0 win over Kingswood College in the first semi final of the President’s Trophy knockout tournament at Royal Complex, Colombo yesterday.

It wasn’t a tale of domination either from Isipathana but they were deadly near the final couple of furlongs. Kingswood invited trouble making mistakes from the start, be it passing errors, constant bungled lineouts or sloppy offloads and will leave Colombo a dejected outfit.

Sajid Suhaib set the early tone which rocked Kingswood and they never recovered. After a lengthy spell where Isipathana monopolized possession, if not for a fumble near the try line by their winger in the 16th minute, it could have got worse, but the respite was over when skipper Prasad Devinda took matters into his own hands four minutes later and went over like the Kingswood defense never existed. Fullback Chanaka Kumara-who had near perfect afternoon with his boots- rifled his kick between the sticks to increase the points cushion to 14.

If one thought that would have calmed Isipathana down, they were way off target with mind reading as immediately after the kickoff, three slick offloads before contact meant they had run the entire 50 metres for Fernando to barge over near the corner flag and the resulting kick, the singular one which went astray spoiled Kumara’s heroics. Then Kingswood began to move the ball tidily for 10 minutes only to be neutralized near the try line every time and that period was the only timeframe which resembled friendliness from Isipathana and failure to convert it into points meant the door was shut for any comeback.

In the 34th minute forward Nipuna Devinda reiterated dynamism which flows in their veins by crashing through amid four defenders to increase the deficit to 26 and just before the halftime a failed clearance was successfully chased down by Isipathana centre Ashan Gallage and the rebound fatally for Kingswood fell into the lap of flanker Kumendra Dharmadasa and there was no guessing what was next.

33-0 up and the game seemingly in the pocket, Isipathana’s approach resembled a kind heart for Kingswood as they let the game flow without any shenanigans. Meanwhile Kingswood repeatedly gave the ball away in lineouts and their No 8 was repeatedly penalized for foul play. In the 54th minute, Isipathana mobility spread like a Hollywood gossip again and Prasad Madusanka made it 38-0 in which Kumara was again on target in the conversion.

Referee D.Nimal’s relaxed afternoon got bit busier as one player from each team was yellow carded and with 20 minutes gone Isipathana was already fielding their reserves with the game done and dusted. In the dying seconds with Kingswood desperate for the final whistle it seemed they conspired to let Madusanka over again such was dreadful and miserable evening they endured.

Before the match Isipathana coach Viraj Prasanna was adamant they’ll come out victorious and when the sun disappeared at Royal Complex his players had done everything make his prediction a reality.

Saturday 24th September, 2011 - The Island

Pathana storms in to the KO finals

Isipathana College took on Kingswood College in their knock out semi final clash at the Royal College sports complex today with the Greens winning the game contentedly 47 points to nil.
 
Half time score: 33-00 Isipathana
Full time score: 47-00 Isipathana

The game was going to be a close one from the outset but the Pathanians had other ideas scoring in the very first minute of the game through their full back Shanaka Kumara. Kingswood failed to clear their lines during the first phase of the game and it resulted in Isipathana skipper charging down fly half Oshan Perera’s kick for Chamara Kumara to score.

Kingswood hardly had possession and when they did they looked out of sorts kicking aimlessly in to the Pathana half. Isipathana prop forward Nipuna Devinda was yellow carded for stamping on a Kingswoodian and was sent off to the cooler for 10 minutes resulting in Isipathana being reduced to 14 players. The speedsters from Havelock’s had many scoring opportunities but failed to capitalise due to crucial handling errors. The Greens skipper then went over for a try after spotting a gap off a scrum where he danced his way over the line beating a few defenders. He had a commendable outing and was well supported by the likes of outside center Ashan Gallage, inside center Shamal Chathuranga, full back Shanaka Kumara and winger Makalanda Prabodha.

Then came the try of the match from the Pathanians right from the restart when first inside Shamal Chathuranga went over for his first. It was a slick move from the Pathana team when their skipper spotted a gap on the blind side and passed to his deputy Sajid Suhaib, who committed the defender and offloaded to Makalanda Prabodha who ran nearly 50 meters before offloading to Shamal Chathuranga to add the finishing touches. Full back Shanaka Kumara failed with the conversion and Isipathana took a commanding 19-00 lead.

Isipathana then decided to use their forwards near the try line and was rewarded when the big framed Nipuna Devinda bulldozed over for his first try after coming back from the sin bin. Kumara with a superb conversion extended the lead to 26-0. Just before the half time whistle the Pathanians managed to score through their open side flanker Umendra Gunadasa while Kumara added the extra points. Half time score 33-00 to Pathana.

The second half saw both teams going at each other but failing to convert it into points. For Kingswood Mohomed Nazri played a good game while the Perera twins, Oshan and Lavanga failed to live up to expectations. Heshan Kalhara playing at number 8 was well marked by the Isipathana third row led by deputy skipper Sajid Suhaib.

Isipathana was on the scoreboard yet again through their compact front rower Prasad Madushanka who went over for a try after a series of pick and goes. With the conversion through Isipathana stood at 40 points to nil.

During the final stages of the game the Kingswoodians began to look frustrated and it was evident when fly half Oshan Perera made a dangerous tackle on replacement 2nd rower Wasula Wimalaweera. Perera was only given a yellow card by referee D. Nimal and was lucky not to get a red. With the clock running out the Pathanians made the finishing touches to the game with a try through their hooker Prasad Madushanka who went over for his second try of the game.

Friday 23th September, 2011 - The Papare

Isipathana and Kingswood’s step towards one-upmanship

 After 15 years of existence, Isipathana and Kingswood both have four President’s trophies each to brag about and the 1st semi final of this year’s tournament today at Royal Complex shall be a critical milepost for whoever is willing to take a focused turn at usurping their opponent of the even pedestal they presently live.

Isipathana could be more ravenous since their final nexus with the knockout trophy was way back in 2001 and since their withering; Kingswood and St.Peter’s have pressingly accumulated three titles on the trot. With St.Peter’s having jolted their path into the semi finals with a hard fought victory over Science, increasingly the odds favour for a five time champion although Trinity might disagree.

Kingswood’s plain sailing against St.Anthony’s may be the cushion they needed to stir up their spirits and the two Perera’s –Oshan and Lavanga- will be ready to unleash their fury. Their form has stuttered during the year, but a straight shootout is an ideal place to spring back to life.

Coach Nalaka Weerakkody was safe in his assessment but was ensured they’ll leave everything on the field. "St.Anthony’s game was a nice start to us, but that’s gone. This is a new match and we’ll see." Asked whether a 5th title was high on the agenda, Weerakkody was quick to reiterate that they’ll plan game by game. "We don’t want to put undue pressure onto ourselves. Before the final we have a major trap to escape in Isipathana. Let’s talk about the final if we qualify."

Isipathana, fresh off their most fruitful league season after a long time will be itching to strike gold when the iron is hot. If not for a cruel penalty kick which went astray in the match against eventual champions Royal, the last rites could have been so different, but as it unfolded a meagre point is what separated the two sides. Devinda Prasad, the fly half and the captain, has been in first class form all over the season and his playmaking expertise could be one aspect Kingswood should watch out for. Sajid Suhaib is as versatile as he is stylish and the tackles he has orchestrated has allowed Isipathana to block others scorecard from moving.

Speaking to ‘The Island’ coach Viraj Prasanna was point blank in that Isipathana is going to come out victorious. "Their side is a good side, but we are a better side. The match is going to competitive, it always is when you face Kingswood, but I’m very confident that we can pull this off." Isipathana didn’t have the luxury of a quarter final as they were awarded a walkover, but Prasanna was confident that it won’t be an issue to write home about. "No, I don’t think it’ll have any harmful effect. We played a friendly match against Army B that day." And Isipathana coach mentioned the necessity of drug tests before the match too. "I have asked our committee to do tests on all my players. That’s a step everyone should take I feel in these times, "he said.

If confidence is the material, Isipathana have already won this game and they’ll step in to Royal Sports Complex as the favourites, but as sporting history suggests, making pre-conclusions are shallow and Kingswood could have something up their sleeve. Last time these two teams got together it ended in a nervous 10-5 triumph for Isipathana. Both possess strong backlines and whoever guards better will have gone a long way for the final.

Squads-

Isipathana- Nipuna Devinda, Prasad Madusanka, Thusitha Yasodha, Arun Kumar, Ganindu Lakshan, Wasala Wimalaweera, Kumendra Dharmadasa, Sajid Suhaib, Kavindu Costa, Prasad Devinda (captain), Shenal Dias, Shamal Chathuranga, Ashan Gallage, Mekalanka Pramod, Chanaka Kumara. Reserves- Udaya Kumara, Danuka Dissanayake, Shenal Deelaka, Hastha Udyoga, Sudeera Shamantha, Pabasara Madhawa, Malin Jumadh, Hirantha Perera, Uditha Premathilake, Panchama Chanaka.

Kingswood- Chamila Abeygunaratne, I C Samarakoon, S R Fernando, R R Premathilake, S Vithanage, N N Jayasinghe, U K Ariyaratne, Kalhara Silva, A Borhan, Lavanga Perera, Mohammad Nazri, H M Bandara, Oshan Perera, K P Piyasena, Thilina Weerasinghe. Reserves- K T Herath, R D Ilangangedara, A Medagedara, I C Kumara, K P Chathunga, K M Perera, N L Chathuranga, G H Piyumal, Buwanaka Wijebandara, S U Karunaratne. 

Friday 23rd September, 2011 - The Island

Top four battle for schools stardom

Pathana Kingswood in grudge battle 

The interschool knock out tournament semi final matches will take place this weekend with Kingswood taking on Isipathana and Trinity going against St. Peters.

Isipathana and Kingswood who are known to have some of the best three-quarter lines in the Island will face off in a tight contest in the first semi-final of the schools knock out tournament.

Match facts

Date: 23^rd Friday

Venue: Royal Complex

Kickoff: 4:45 pm

Big picture

Isipathana edged out Kingswood in the league match with a 10-5 win at the Bogambara Stadium a few months back and are in course for a repeat during their clash on Friday at the Royal Complex. Isipathana the more rounded team out of the two will be led by their inspirational number 10 Prasad Devinda while the Kingswoodians will be taken out on to the field by their hard working third row forward Jananath Dharmawardene.

For Isipathana it has been all about their speed and quick acceleration around the park. Blessed with some of the best three-quarters and complimented by a talented 3rd row the Pathana team looks the stronger out of the two. With 3 Sri Lanka U-19 players in their ranks Isipathana have one of the most experienced sides going in to this encounter and looks to be one of the front runners to clinch the title.

The Kingswoodians who did not live up to expectations in the league tournament will have a bone to pick with the greens come this Saturday. Skipper Dharmawardene and Kandy SC players Heshan Kalhara and the Perera twins Oshan and Lavanga have been their main players this season.
The team which scores first will have a huge advantage during the semi finals. Both teams are said to be going at full strength and will no doubt be a cracker on display.

Friday 23rd September, 2011 - thepapare

President's Trophy Rugby Tournament

The glamour boys of schools rugby Isipathana College will start as the favourites to clinch the coveted President’s Trophy when the annual Milo Schools Under-20 Knockout Rugby tournament gets underway at the Royal Sports Complex in Reid Avenue next Sunday.

The quarterfinals will be worked off on September 18 and 19 with the semi-finals scheduled for September 23 and 24. The final will be played on September 30.

With the league champions Royal College opting out from this year’s tournament the cynosure of all eyes will be on Isipathana College seeded number one for the quarterfinals.

Isipathana College will receive a bye into the semi-finals as only seven teams have confirmed their participation in this event. St. Joseph’s, St. Anthony’s, Wesley and S. Thomas’ are the other teams who have made themselves unavailable for this tournament.

Isipathana of course narrowly missed out the Singer Inter-School Division One League title emerging runners-up having recorded ten victories beating, St. Anthony’s (31-3), Dharmaraja (37-15), Science College (23-17), St. Joseph’s (29-23), Wesley (46-3), S. Thomas’ (77-3), Trinity (23-18), St. Peter’s (42-29), Kingswood (10-5) and traditional rivals Thurstan (70-6).

Isipathana’s only setback this year was their close 10-11 defeat at the hands of the ultimate league champions Royal College. Now, after a break of more than one month they will be back on the field determined to make amends and conclude this season on a high note.

In fact, Isipathana have always performed well in the knockout tournaments because they seem to play their best rugby during the latter stages of the season. They were the runners-up for three successive years in 2007, 2008 and 2009 respectively.

In this year’s league tournament they figured in some close encounters and as a result they failed to obtain the extra bonus points which certainly turned out to be crucial at the end.

But the knockout tournament has helped Isipathana College produce their best in the recent past and this time too they will be hoping that they could come out with an exceptional performance to win the President’s Trophy.

Isipatana’s main rivals this time will be Trinity College Kandy and St. Peter’s College Bambalapitiya who finished third and fourth respectively in the league points table.

In fact both Trinity and St. Peter’s will have a point to prove when the tournament begins having experienced mixed fortunes during the league championship.

The Trinitians of course made a wonderful start to the season when they annihilated S. Thomas’ College Mount Lavinia by 75 points to 6 points in a completely one-sided contest.

They made steady progress from there onwards and went on to beat St. Anthony’s (10-3), Kingswood (41-0), St. Joseph’s (38-10), Wesley (48-13), St. Peter’s (34-10), Thurstan (41-3) and Dharmaraja.

But more than their performances in the league tournament Trinity College will be quite satisfied with the manner they regained the prestigious ‘Bradby Shield’ against their traditional rivals Royal College.

In Kandy they went down fighting in the first leg 25-33 before staging a remarkable comeback to take the return fixture by a record margin of 40-5 at the Royal Sports Complex in Reid Avenue.

In between Trinity College also went down by a five-point margin (18-23) against their arch rivals Isipathana College. Overall it has been a mixed bag for Trinity College who will be hoping to make a huge impact in the President’s Trophy Knockout Tournament.

Meanwhile St. Peter’s College will be hoping for an improved performance when they begin their campaign for the President’s Trophy. The former champions completely fell apart during the latter stages of the league tournament following a couple of shock defeats.

The Peterites failed to maintain the same momentum as they went down badly in some of their key matches against Trinity ((10-34), Isipathana (29-42), Royal (41-50) and Kingswood (13-17).

Until then St. Peter’s College looked in a good frame of mind as they made a positive start to the season in their attempt to retain the league title for the second successive year.

They certainly enjoyed the early part of the season after having pulled off some big victories against Science College (48-7), Thurstan (61-6), Dharmaraja (54-5), Wesley (62-7), St. Anthony’s (42-10), St. Joseph’s (23-17) and S. Thomas’ (59-7).

No doubt St. Peter’s College is packed with a number of outstanding players and a couple of national youth caps but they will need to realise that individual brilliance alone will not help their cause and should be able to concentrate on a combined team effort.

But the team which is most likely to turn things around will be Science Colleg, Mount Lavinia who has got another great opportunity to leave their mark before the conclusion of the current inter-school rugby season.

In fact Science College emerged as the most unpredictable team in the league tournament where they had the distinction of overcoming a couple of fancied teams including a historic 12-11 triumph against Trinity College.

They never looked back from there and went on to beat Kingswood (20-17), Thurstan (30-15), Wesley (17-5) and S. Thomas’ (31-0) before going down fighting against the ultimate league champions Royal by a three-point margin (15-18),

Their rise to the top division has been purely due to hard work and commitment where they have concentrated a lot on the basics and finer points under the guidance of Coach Mothilal Jayatilleke.

A vital factor in their success this season has been the fitness level of the players having trained hard to absorb the pressure from the opposition especially during the latter stages of the game.

This was a key area for their success in both matches against Trinity College and Kingswood College where Science College were able to keep their cool and come out victorious despite the huge challenge from the opposition.

The President’s trophy quarterfinal draw

September 18: Isipathana bye
Kingswood v Science
September 19: St. Peter’s v Dharmaraja
Trinity v Thurstan

September 23: 1st semifinal
September 24: 2nd semifinal
September 30: Final

Sunday 11th  September, 2011 - The Nation

Dinusha Chathuranga Fernando of Navy SC will lead the Sri Lanka team for the Shanghai 7’s 2011

Former Isipathana skipper, Dinusha Chathuranga Fernando of Navy SC will lead the Sri Lanka team for the Shanghai 7’s 2011.

Pool A

Korea, Philipines, UAE

Pool B

Japan, Thailand, Chinese Taipei

Pool C

Hong Kong, Malaysia, Mongolia

Pool D

China, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan



thescore

Isipathana, Trinity and Dharmaraja best bets

U 16 Division I rugby in Kandy
 
Isipathna, Trinity and Dharmaraja looked the best bets for Cup honours at the end of day one of the All Island under 16 Division one rugby tournament held at Bogambara.
Isipathana played with flair and their attacking ploys were successful. Trinity had pace and confidence with approach. The Rajans played a robust and powerful brand of rugby.
It was a pity that despite the best laid out plans of the organizers, one of the best matches – the last one between rivals Trinity and St. Anthony’s – was played in near darkness.
The tournament continues today at 8.45 a.m.
The quarter-final line-ups are as follows:
Cup – St. Peter’s vs D.S Senanayake; Mahanama vs Dharmaraja; Isipathana vs Royal; St. Joseph’s vs Trinity.
Bowl – Kingswood vs Ananda; Science vs St.Sylvester’s; Vidyartha vs Carey; Royal Panadura vs St. Anthony’s.
Shield – Prince of Wales vs Piliyandala Central;Nalanda vs Maliyadeva; St.Benedict’s vs Lalith Athulathmudali; Wesley vs C.W.Kannangara.

Sunday Times

Pathana Rout Kings

After a week’s lapse of schools rugby, title contenders Isipathana met the host Kingswood at the Bogambara stadium on Saturday.
Half time score: 5 nil Isipathana leading



Full time score: 10-5 Isipathana won



Match was much anticipated affair as it went to keeping the Isipathana hopes alive for the title against the table leaders Royal.

Pathana's formidable forwards dominated the game during the first quarter of the, gaining possession and wining opposition line outs. Visitors started brightly enough to score the first try of the game at the 10th minute of the game. It was the first scrum of the match to Kingswood, which was turned around by agile forward Prasad Madushanka scoring an unconverted try.

Half way through the first half the game which was a much contested and volatile affair as both teams were shown yellow cards and the respective players were sent to sin-bin.

It was twisting at both ends of the ground as both teams tried to penetrate through the opponents defense. However Pathana gained the edge as their forwards were fast and mobile and at times it proved too much for Kingswood.

At the end of closely contested 40 minutes of the game score board read 5- nil in favour of Isipathana.

Pathan started the second half by gaining possession through set pieces and dominating line outs and scrums.

It was close affair; however both teams didn't capitalize on the opposition’s mistakes and showcased some poor rugby handling. At the 70th minute with brilliant show of skills Kingswood three quarters made the break through and Kingswood fullback Thilina Weerasinghe scored the try in the left corner. However deciding conversion wasn't successful.

Match was a tough call at this stage; Pathana took it up a notch by trying to penetrate through their opponents defense. Their effort were rewarded with a brilliant move from their number 7 and Sri Lanka youth ace Sajith Suhaib who combined with the winger Uditha who scored a try in the left corner. It was relief and joy for the diehard fans from Colombo although the conversion was not successful.

Kingswood came back with a huge effort at the tail end of the match and came close to the try line but tough defense from the visitors prevented them gaining the upper hand.



The match ended to in favour of Isipathana score board reading 10 points to 5.

www.thepapare.com

Greens take on Kings- Another humdinger!

Isipathana College placed second in the league will take on Kingswood College in another schools fixture match this weekend at Bogambara.

Match facts

Date: 9th July

Venue: Bogambara Stadium Kandy

Time: 04:30pm

Big picture

With the league tournament coming to a close, the Pathanians who have won 8 out of 9 games will take on the 5th placed Kingswoodians in what is tagged as a close contest. Isipathana which boasts of some of the best three-quarters in the schools league will be led by the Sri Lankan youth player Prasad Devinda while the Kingswoodians will be taken on to the field by crack third row forward Jananath Dharmawardene.

The Kingswoodians

The Kingswood team which started off well in the league could not sustain the pressure asserted on them by some of the teams and were at the receiving end against the likes of Trinity, Royal, St. Josephs and Science College.

Their skipper Dharmawardene has been a great motivator and has been playing in both the center position as well as the number eight position for his team. Together with Sri Lanka youth forward Heshan Kalhara the Kings have a solid pack to match up to the dynamic Pathana forwards. The three quarters will be led by two upcoming stars, twins Oshan and Lavanga Perera playing in the fly half and center positions. Both players displayed tremendous skills in the recently concluded junior rugby Asiad with Oshan scoring the opener against Japan and Lavanga scoring a double against a formidable Hong Kong side. Thilina Weerasuriya playing at full back is a brilliant player to watch in open play and he will also have Nazri Mohomed for support who will be playing on the wing.

The Isipathanians

The Greens led by the sparking Devinda Prasad has kept the spectators at the edge of their seats with their free flowing rugby this season. Their forwards though comparatively small made have played with a lot of heart and this has been one of the main reasons for their triumphs this season. The pack which will be led by flank forward Sajid Suhaib another Sri Lankan youth player have dominated most games with their flashy forwards play. The big front row forward cum number eight Nipuna Devinda has been their favoured ball carrier through the season and has had able support from Prasad Madushanka another senior player.

Their three’s who even dominated the fearsome Peters line is led by fly half and skipper Devinda Prasad. Centers Ashan Gallage and Chamal Fernando have been hitting the gaps hard and will try and do the same against the Kingswoodians. Their back three led by Makalanda Prabodha and Shanaka Kumara have been doing the finishing for the Pathanians this season and will try and get around the Kingswood defence this Saturday.

Final verdict

Isipathana certainly will have the edge with their current form but the Kingswoodians after a three week break would have certainly polished their rough ends and will be coming out to beat the Greens. The more experienced set of players from Isipathana have the slight nod ahead of their counterparts going in to battle.

http://www.thepapare.com/

Establishment of Isipathana College Past Rugby Players Association

Establishment of the inaugural Isipathana College Past Rugby Players Association (ICPRPA), coming under the Isipathana College Old Boys’ Association, took place on 24th June,2011. The meeting was chaired by the Principal, Mr. A. C. Perera, and the objectives of the formation of such ICPRPA was for the purpose of establishing strong fellowship amongst the past rugby players of Isipathana College and also with a view to support to continue maintaining of the dominance of Isipathana College to be a leading rugby playing school in the years ahead too. Isipathana College within the last four decades has the distinction of producing a proud record of 54 rugby players to represent the nation team. Further several outstanding personalities of Isipathana College old boys have made invaluable contributions towards the ‘National Rugby Administration’ of Sri Lanka in the past few decades.

( Picture shows the establishment of the inaugural Isipathana College Past Rugby Players Association (ICPRPA) in progress. )



The Inaugural Committee of the Isipathana College Past Rugby Players Association (ICPRPA)



Patron: A. C. Perera – Principal & President of Isipathana College OBA



President: Ana Saranapala



Vice Presidents:



1. Sriyantha Rajakaruna

2. Group Capt. Nalin de Silva

3. Dilroy Fernando

4. Hisham Abdeen

5. Commd. H. K. Sisira

6. Saman Manchanayake – Chairman of Rugby OBA ExCo (Ex officio basis)

Secretary: Anura Serasingha

Treasurer: Nimal Luxshman



Committee:



1. Dayalu Perera

2. M. D. Ifthikar

3. Sajith Mallikaarachchi

4. Shiam Siddik

5. Shamly Nawaz

6. Viraj Prasantha

7. Wing Comd. Sanjaya Fernando

8. Nizam Jamaldeen

9. Selvin Salley

10. Hassan Sinhawansa


http://www.isipathanaonline.info/

Selection committee cuts junior squad down to 28

The Sri Lanka rugby selection committee cut down the junior rugby squad down to a 28 man squad yesterday after having their final selections at the Sugathadasa Stadium. However the squad of 28 is yet to confirmed and is awaiting ratification by the sports minister.

ThePapare conducted the final trial in form of the All star rugby encounter in which the new selection committee headed by Chandrashan Perera chose a squad of 35 players. An interesting inclusion amongst the final 28 players is St. Peters College fly half Dulaj Perera who was not in the initial squad of 35 players. ThePapare earlier mentioned that Dulaj Perera was a player who should be included in the final selection due to his obvious skills displayed in the schools rugby league tournament. His inclusion however has come in the expense of Royal College fly half Arshad Jamaldeen who is also the highest point’s scorer of the season.

The ARFU u-20 Asian championship which is supposed to be worked off on the 26th of June will feature 4 of the top teams in Asia which will include Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand and Sri Lanka who will be playing this tournament as a JWRT qualifier.

DATE- MATCH- TIME
26th June- Japan vs. Sri Lanka- 1800 hrs
26th June- Hong Kong vs. Thailand- 1939 hrs
29th June- Hong Kong vs. Sri Lanka- 1800 hrs
29th June- Japan vs. Thailand- 1930 hrs
2nd July- Thailand vs. Sri Lanka- 1730 hrs
2nd July- Japan vs. Hong Kong- 1900 hrs


Below is the squad of 28 which is yet to be ratified by the sports ministry

Props – Heshan Kalhara (KCK), Timira Galapaththige (TCK), Hafeez Adahan (TC), Kokila Hiran (WC),Nipuna Devinda (IC)

Hookers – Murad Ramzeen (TCK), Isuru Alwis (SPC) Prasad Madushanka (IC)

2nd Rows – Sachinthaka Perera (TCK), Randika Alwis (TCK)

Flankers – Jason Dissanayake (Vidyartha), Savinda Unamboowa (TCK), Sean Foster (TCK), Sajid Suhaib (IC)

Number 8 – Sanka Rajaguru (SACK), Shehan Pathirana (RC)

Scrum halves – Sanjaya Somasiri (TCK), Banuka Nanayakkara (SPC)

Fly halves – Devinda Prasad (IC)

Centers – Kanil Seneviratne (TCK), Dilshan Chathuranga (TCK), Danushka Ranjan (SPC), Shamal Chathuranga (IC), Oshan Perera (KCK)

Wing three’s – Lavanga Perera (KCK), Shashan Mohomed (TCK), Sandun Herath (SPC), Mekalanda Praboda (IC)

Full back – Dulaj Perera (SPC)

www.thepapare.com

Sri Lanka under 20 Squad announced

The Sri Lanka under 20 team is scheduled to play the ARFU Asian Championship in Hong Kong later this month. The team will be coached by Ellis Meachen, C.P. Abeygunawadene and Nihal ‘Viper’ Gunaratne.

The Sri Lanka Selection panel which has been rushed into selecting a squad selected a 35 man pool after ThePapare All star encounter last Thursday. After training together for a few days the pool was cut down to 28 on Sunday’s trial. The squad then played the final trial at CR&FC and the squad was cut down to the final 24.

Earlier today Murad Ramzeen was surprisingly appointed as the captain of the side over the expected Shehan Pathirana and Sankha Rajaguru. Shehan Pathirana will play the role of deputy skipper.


The squad that is scheduled to leave for Hong Kong on Thursday is;

Props- Hafeez Adahan (Thurstan), Heshan Kalahara (KCK), Thimira Galapaththige (TCK), Kokila Kiran (WC)

Hookers- Murad Ramzeen (TCK), Isuru Alwis (SPC)

Locks- S I Perera (TCK), Jason Dissanayake (VC), Randhika Alwis (TCK),

Flankers- Sajid Suhaib(IC), Savinda Unamboowa (TCK), Shehan Pathirana (Royal)

No 8- Sanka Rajaguru (SACK)

Half Backs- Banuka Nayayakkara (SPC), ) Sanjaya Somasiri (TCK)

Fly Half- Dulaj Perera (SPC),

Centers- Dhanushka Ranjan (SPC), ) Dilshan Chathuranga (TCK), Oshan Perera (KCK)

Wingers- Sandun Herath (SPC), Mekalanka Praboda (IC) Lavanga Perera (KCK) Sashan Mohammed (TCK)

Full Back- Devinda Prasad (IC)

The four stand by players’ are- Nipuna Devinda (IC), Sean Foster (TCK), Kanil Seneviratne (TCK) and Prasad Madushanka (IC)

Sri Lanka will face off against Japan in their first match on the 26th of June.

http://www.thepapare.com/

Close call for captaincy

With the ARFU under 20 Asian championship around the corner, the newly appointed selection committee is yet to name the captain of the side who will lead the young tuskers on tour. The Sri Lankan team which is supposed to take flight to Hong Kong on the 23rd of this month (Thursday) still has not confirmed the final squad.

There are three ‘top contenders’ for captaincy namely, Sanka Rajaguru (SACK), Shehan Pathirana (RC) and Devinda Prasad (IC), while Banuka Nanayakkara (SPC) and Murad Ramzeen (TCK) also represented Sri Lanka last year. Sanka Rajaguru was named as skipper of Kandy Reds by coach Nihal ‘Viper’ Guneratne while he led the Reds in the 1st and 3rd chucker of the All star rugby encounter while Murad Ramzeen led the team in the 2nd chucker. However there was only one captain named by the Colombo Blues coach C. P Abeygoonewardene for the All star encounter which was Royal College skipper Shehan ‘Lema’ Pathirana.

It was an interesting sight to see that it was Devinda Prasad from Isipathana who led the Colombo Blues on to the field from the changing rooms before the selection clash held last week after their coach named Pathirana as the captain prior to the game. Prasad who turned up for the junior national team in the previous year played a vital role in Sri Lanka’s performance therefore was treated as the most senior player even during their practice sessions leading up to the all star encounter. ThePapare crew who were in close quarters when the Colombo Blue were at training perceived that Prasad was the top candidate for the job and would have gotten captaincy over Shehan Pathirana due his leadership shown at the training sessions. Having said that, Shehan Pathirana is a consummate leader who has led an average Royal College side to the glimpse of a league championship, winning all their matches in the league and remain as the only unbeaten side of the league.

On the other hand Sanka ‘Raju’ Rajaguru the other contender for the title has been in the national squad from 2009 and is regarded as an inspirational leader. The bulky number eight from Katugastota who started playing in the front row showed what he was capable of at the all star game playing at number eight and might be the surprise package skipper for the national team considering his experience in the national arena.

It is learnt that the junior national team will be training on three occasions tomorrow (20th June) at the Sugathadasa Stadium while also playing a practice game against the CR&FC in the evening. The selection committee who has handed in their final 28 for ratification from the sports ministry will have a tough job in their hands choosing the right candidate for captaincy.

The five man selection team headed by Chandrashan Perera who were appointed the day of the All stars encounter named a 35 man squad the same day and reduced it to a 28 man squad on the 19th of June. The five members who are all former national players are regarded highly in the rugby circles. Sri Lanka faces an acid test in their opener against the top nation in Asian rugby, Japan on the 26th of June.

www.thepapare.com

Pathana second half rally demolishes SPC fortunes

Scintillating second half rally saw Isipathana College thrashing determined St Peter’s College at Bambalapitiya this evening. Both sides displayed some good fast rugby but Isipathana College proved that they can adjust themselves and dominated in the second half.

Half Time Score 15-11 SPC Leading

Full Time Score 42-29 IC Won

St Peter’s College once again proved that they have got one of the weakest packs this season as almost every scrum was destroyed by Isipathana College. In the line outs too St Peter’s could not do better as they fumbled all the time. Isipathana College showed their superiority in scrums, rucks & mauls where St Peter’s College showed much talent in the line.

IC opened scoring in the 5th minute with try at the far right and the conversion went astray. In the 14the minute SPC scored a brilliant try to level the scores 05-05.

Then IC was awarded a penalty and they took up the lead 08-05. Immediately after that we saw a superb try by Dulaj Perera which took SPC in to the lead at10-08.

Few minute later IC converted a penalty to come in the lead 11-10, but it lived very short as Banuka Nanayakkara scored a brilliant try to take SPC to a half time lead of 15-11.

After the turnaround it was all the way for Pathana who scored 2 tries and 2 goals just in the space of 17 minutes to take them to a unassailable lead 35-15.

However SPC managed to score a goal to reduce the gap 35-22 but IC had not finished as they scored yet another goal to take them up to a 42-22 lead. In the dying stages of the game SPC scored another goal to make the final score 42-29.

At Full time Scores were 42 (3 goals/3 tries/2 penalties) to – 29 (2 goal /3 tries)

Referee D. Nimal had good match under his control.

Junior Rugby

Under 12

Isipathan won 21-12

Under 16

St Peter’s won 24-15

Isipathana determined to win schools league title

Isipathana are determined to clinch the Under-20 inter-school league rugby title this year after a lapse of 10 years. Having made a reputation for fast running rugby from its inception Isipathana has a well balanced team with a mobile and heavy set of forwards to assist their speedy three-quarters.
“I have a strong feeling that Isipathana could reach the top of the table when the season ends. This also means that we will be league champions after a decade. With no other tournaments at sight in the near future, we are totally focused with that goal,” stated Viraj Prasanna, the Isipathana coach.

Viraj Prasanna (Coach)

Prasad Devinda (Captain)

In addition to their strengths which are the formidable three-quarter line, Isipathana also have retained the services of almost thirteen senior players from last season. The newcomers to the side also have made their presence felt with great ambiance at the same time challenging their senior team mates for positions. These facts were well proven when coach Prasanna combined the experience and talent to record two good wins against Dharmaraja 37-15 and St. Anthony’s 31-3. However in their third match against Royal, Isipathana were put under pressure and succumbed to a slender defeat by one point. The game ended in favour of Royal at 11-10.

“The defeat at the hands of Royal does not mean Isipathana played bad rugby. We were really good but could not make the finishing touches. But when compared to the first two games where we recorded wins, the performance was far ahead. It’s really a good indication. We are improving after every game and going with our strengths to achieve what’s in our minds,” Prasanna added.
With their one-point calamity against Royal firmly placed in their minds, Isipathana went on to approach each game with a positive frame of mind. They were not ready to underestimate their opponents and went on to win the two games with great confidence. They beat giant killers Science by 23-17 after surviving tremendous pressure and a week later put a full-stop to avenging St. Joseph’s at 29-23. They crushed Wesley by 46-3 two weeks ago and last weekend carried on with their tremendous form with an emphatic 77-3 win over S. Thomas’.

“I really was not ready to take the risk of giving overambitious targets to our players. I knew that they are potentially talented players with born ability. My job as the coach is to give them the correct guidance and built their characters as sportsmen. In addition, my style of approaching into things was taking a step at a time. This gave the players that target which is to focus and win the match on that particular week. This has worked quite well for us thus far,” Prasanna who is also a product of Isipathana added.
Unlike recent years, this season Isipathana has made drastic changes to on field preparations and approach. This includes two separate huddles, one for the forwards and the other for the three-quarters before the first whistle and at the time of half time. This follows with a single huddle before the team takes the field. Prasanna who is a neat spotter of loose play said that during play he prefers to give the skipper total control of the game.

Isipathana rugby squad

“With these huddles I intend to give them a quick briefing about the way they should take the game on. I prefer to make it a very small briefing as players naturally don’t keep everything in their heads, especially when they are nervous before and in-between a game. Days before the match we discuss our game plan which could fit the opponents. On the big day I give the captain the freedom to lead his team. Clauses that failed to materialize then would be discussed through a friendly team chat. After each game the players tend to do very little mistakes,” he revealed.

Isipathana last won the schools league championship in 2001 under the captaincy of Ranga Perera but during this phase they were able to emerge as runners-up in 2007. Additionally they have emerged as runners-up in the Presidents Trophy knockout championship for three successive years since 2007. With last year’s season also proving to be a mix of fortunes, they are ambitious to go for the gold after a decade. With six matches ahead for them Prasanna was highly confident that Isipathana can reach their target without a doubt.

“The season has still got six weeks of rugby ahead. I know it’s premature to assume things but with our strategy of approach by the end of the season thing could favour our aim,” Prasanna said.
Isipathana rugby squad:

Prop forwards: Nipuna Devinda, Thusitha Mithraratne, Chanuka Dissanayake
Hookers: Manaka Siriwardena, Prasad Madushanka
Locks: Vasula Wimalaweera, Ganidu Lakshan, Senal Deelaka, Arun Kumar
Flankers: Kumendra Dharmadasa, Ashan Kavinda, Hasitha Udyoga
No.8: Sajith Shuaib
Scrumhalf: Kavindu de Costa
Fly half: Hirantha Perera, Prashan Attanayake
Centres: Prasad Devinda (Captain), Ashan Gallage, Shamal Chaturanga
Wingers: Mekalanka Pramoda, Shenal Dias, Umayanga Sooriyabandara, Uditha Tharanatha
Full back: Shanaka Kumara, Malik Jumad

The SundayTimes

June 5th, 2011

Peterite-Isipatana in grudge battle

The Singer inter-school Under 20 Division One League tournament will reach its climax when the reigning champions St. Peter’s College take on Isipatana College in a key fixture at Bambalapitiya on June 11 (Saturday).

Both teams are in contention for the richest prize in the schools rugby scene this season along with the table leaders and the unbeaten Royal College team. St. Peter’s and Isipatana have the identical record in the tournament with seven victories from eight outings.

The Peterites suffered their only defeat this year against Trinity College Kandy (10-34) on their home grounds while Isipatana went down fighting 11-10 against Royal.

Despite the two defeats both St. Peter’s and Isipatana have made steady progress and have kept their hopes alive of winning the league championship. In fact both teams will take the field with confidence having recorded victories in their previous outings.

Isipatana of course had the satisfaction of overcoming Trinity College Kandy 23-18 at the Pallekele Stadium while St. Peter’s College recorded a huge 59-7 triumph against S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia.

The Peterites have scored the most number of tries in the tournament 57 and 27 conversions with a tally of 359 points to their credit. This is mainly because they have been able to register some big victories in the tournament.

In fact they started off with a bang defeating Science College (48-7), Thurstan (61-6), Dharmaraja (54-5) Wesley (62-7) and St. Anthony’s (42-10). After their shock defeat against Trinity, the Peterites again recovered to beat their traditional rivals St. Joseph’s (23-17) and S. Thomas’ (59-7).

In contrast Isipatana had a quiet start to their campaign where they defeated Dharamaraja (37-15) and St. Anthony’s (31-3) before losing to Royal by a solitary point 10-11.

However Isipatana bounced back in style and continued with their winning ways while overcoming Science College (23-17), St. Joseph’s (29-23), Wesley (46-3), S. Thomas’ (77-3) and Trinity (23-18).

Meanwhile Wesley College will be looking to register their second win for the season when they take on Thurstan College in another Singer Division One League tournament match at Longden Place on Saturday.

In addition Science College will travel up to Kandy for the second successive week to play against St. Anthony’s College at the Nittawela Stadium while Dharmaraja College will meet St. Joseph’s College at the Bogambara Stadium with both matches on Saturday.

DailyNews
June 08th, 2011

Isipatana in superb win over Trinity

Isipatana College produced a magnificent performance to beat Trinity College 23-18 in a key Singer inter-school Under 20 Division One League tournament fixture worked off at the Pallekele Stadium.

Isipatana’s success had a great amount of significance as they had the better of their arch rivals after a lapse of three years. In addition they had the satisfaction of overcoming their opponents away from home which was another creditable achievement.

In a thrilling game that swung either way from the kick off both teams scored three tries each but Isipatana committed the least number of mistakes and held their nerves before registering a memorable victory at the end.

There were early signs that this match would turn into a blockbuster with both teams scoring a try and a penalty in the first half. However Isipatana stepped up the gas in the second quarter with their backline coming into their own through a series of threatening moves.

Skipper and dynamic centre three quarter Prasad Devinda led from the front while full back Shanaka Kumara also played a major role in their success while putting over a crucial penalty and a match winning drop goal.

This victory would give Isipatana a tremendous morale booster ahead of their crunch game against the defending champions St. Peter’s College this weekend at Bambalapitya.

However for Trinity College their third defeat this season have put them out of contention for the League title but more importantly it will be a huge setback ahead of their Bradby Shield second leg against the traditional rivals Royal College in Colombo on Saturday.

DailyNews

Tuesday, 7 June 2011

2011 All Island Sevens

St. Peters College won the 2011 All island sevens tournament beating Kingswood College today in the final. S. Thomas’ College won the plate segment while Royal Panadura walked away with the bowl.
Cup finals – Peters win 6th consecutive trophy, remains ‘UNBEATEN’ (24-15)
St. Peters College the defending sevens champions came out with another superlative performance to beat a tough Kingswood side in the cup finals. St. Peters who won the Carlton schools sevens tournament back in 2009 never looked back since then, winning the western province and all island sevens tournaments, the interschool 2010 league and knock out tournaments and now the 2011 all-island sevens tournament.
Danushka Ranjan, Skipper Banuka Nanayakkara, Rizi Meedin, Dulaj Perera and winger Sandun Herath were the stand out performers for the Petes. St. Peters after an unbeaten season last year proved to be the team to beat from the outset. Kingswood College who had a good run up to the finals beating Trinity in the semi finals did not have the fire power to stop the marauding Petes from scoring. Lavanga and Oshan Perera were brilliant in attack but lacked support from the rest of the players.
Plate final – Thomian three-quarters pilot win (26-00)
The Thomian Three-quarters played their part in bringing them the Plate, in the interschool all island rugby tournament. Shevan Kapuwatte, Hashaka Senanayake, Danoj de Silva, and skipper Randika Pieris took the game the Lumbini players and walked away with a comfortable win against Lumbini. The Thomians having a disappointing run in the initial stages of the tournament rallied their troops to finish on top of the plate category.
Bowl Final – Royal Panadura take away the bronze (19-00)
Royal Panadura who displayed brilliant rugby from the start of the tournament were the ominous favourites going in to the second day in the bowl category. Their speedy three-quarters were no match to the Nalanda lads as they dished out typical sevens rugby at the Royal sports complex. The only chink in their armory was consistency but it was good enough to take away the bowl for the 2011 season.
Cup quarters review
SPC vs. IC - St. Peters College after dominating proceedings went on to clean sweep their opponants on day two after facing Isipathana College in their quarter finals. It was always expected to be a close tussle and St. Peters held their nerve to come out victors scoring 12 points to seven.
WC vs. Mahanama – Wesley who had an average start to the lsland tournament gave in a hearty performance to come out victorious by 31 points to nil. Mahanama did not have the right combination going in to the match and was knocked out during the early hours of the tournament.
KCK vs. POW – The Kingswood team completely dominated proceedings against the minnows from Moratuwa, pilling up 26-0 at the end of full time.
TCK vs. DC – Trintiy who have been tagged as one of the favourites this season had a tough time against the Rajans winning by just 7-0.

Plate quarter finals
Vidyartha 21 vs. Thurstan 07
Lumbini 33 vs. St. Aloysius 00
St. Sylvesters 24 vs. Royal 00
S. Thomas’ 26 vs. Ananda 07

Cup semi finals
St. Peters 31 vs. Wesley 05
Kingswood 14 vs. Trinity 05

Plate semi finals
Lumbini 24 vs. Vidyartha 12
S. Thomas’ 22 vs. St. Sylvesters 12