“Confidence is key against Hong Kong” – Omalka Gunarathne

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The 2015 skipper of Isipathana College and Sri Lanka U19, chatted to us on his experience and thoughts regarding the upcoming Asia U19 Championship which is to be held on the 10th of December at the Racecourse grounds.

The junior tuskers who toured to Hong-Kong in 2015, lost to the hosts by only a slight margin of two points, shattering the hopes for Sri Lanka. Omalka pointed out that the lack of confidence was a losing factor that year.

Talking to ThePapare.com the former skipper added these words;

“In 2015 we lost to Hong-Kong by just two points. I still believe that we could’ve won it that year. We always lacked in confidence when playing against Hong-Kong, that needs to change this year.”

In last year’s tournament, Hong-Kong and Chinese Taipei defeated the junior Tuskers, but Sri Lanka still managed to retain a place in the top two. Omalka stated that this year will be a great opportunity for the young players to take Sri Lanka to the next level.

“Naveen will have to step up and play a leaders role being the most experienced player in the squadThe change in the concept of the qualifiers is an advantage for Sri Lanka since we have only one game each leg and our first game being at home. If we secure a win here we could definitely go to Hong-Kong with a winning mentality and make a change.”

Along with Omalka and the rest of the country, we at ThePapare.com wish the young Tuskers the very best in the upcoming Asia U19 championship.

ThePapare be bringing you exclusive coverage from the Asia Under 19 Rugby Championship on the 10th of December 2017 from the Racecourse Grounds. Stay logged!