ThePapare.com spoke to Sandun Herath who is currently the highest try scorer in this season’s Dialog Rugby League. Herath who was a revelation when he joined St. Peters from Kurunegala Maliyadeva continues to entertain the rugby loving Sri Lankan community with his blistering pace and also helped propel Sri Lanka to 7’s glory.
How did you start playing rugby?
When I was in Grade 5 we were asked to raise our hands if we wanted to play rugby, and I obliged. That’s how I first got into the game.
I was at Kurunegala Maliyadeva Vidyalaya until my Ordinary Level examination, after which I was absorbed into St. Peters College where I had the privilege of working with the coach at that time Sanath Martis.
How did you find the difference in rugby between the two schools?
There was a huge difference between the facilities available in both schools and it all seemed amazing to me when I first joined.
What was your thinking behind shifting to Colombo?
I came to Colombo to improve my rugby mostly, and I think I have achieved that objective and have gone forward with the sport. Rugby has become a part of my life, and I have done everything for rugby.
How was the support you got from your family and peers?
My mom has been a pillar supporting me in my endeavours with the sport, my family and all the coaches who I have worked with have helped me a lot as well.
What is your most memorable moment/achievement?
I scored 26 tries in the 2010 school season which is incidentally a record. That year we also became unbeaten triple champions after winning the League, the Knockouts and the 7s titles which is every school boy rugby player’s dream.
Did you see yourself playing rugby at international level 10 years ago?
I would have never have believed 10 years ago that I would represent Sri Lanka on the national stage, but after I joined St. Peters I thought I might have a chance to get there and I shaped my goals such that I would one day make my way to the national stage.
What do you think of Rugby in Sri Lanka now?
Rugby in Sri Lanka has improved drastically, there has been so much development in the quality of the sport as well, while tournaments like Carlton has also managed to increase the demand for players and the sport as a whole.
I hope in the future we have a lot more coaches and trainers and become fitter to play at the very top level.
How has it been playing for Havelocks SC?
Playing for Havelocks has been an extremely good experience, and we hope to win the Cup this season as well.
Your close to breaking the highest tries (21) scored in a single season record this year , your thoughts?
I didn’t think I would be close to breaking a record at the start of the season, but I think it is because of my commitment that I have managed to get here, I virtually spend my life with rugby.
What is your motto in life?
If you have to do something you need to be focused and that will help you achieve your targets.
What is your usual daily programme like?
I wake up early morning and usually go to the gym, if I have time I manage to slot in a few hours at office. I take my nutrition programme seriously which includes intakes thrice a day. Usually I have practice at 5.30 in the evening and if I have time I do a bit more personal exercises and head home.
Do you like have engaged in any other sports?
I really like athletics. I haven’t had the opportunity to participate in an athletic meet yet, but we will see in the future if i can get to do that as well.
Who is your favourite rugby player?
I respect Richie McCaw and his leadership qualities. I also love to watch Bryan Habana play.
What are your thoughts on the Sri Lankan Sevens team and how has the experience helped you?
The experience I received in the 7s tours was amazing. It was superb to play at an international level while scoring tries at the same time as well. The Carlton 7s helped us overcome the fear of playing against foreigners which was a huge boost for us.
What does Sri Lanka’s qualification to the Hong Kong 7’s mean to you?
Sri Lanka’s qualification to the Hong Kong 7s is a huge thing for the country, and we hope that we can do well in the tournament. We also hope to work hard towards getting a medal at the Commonwealth Games as well.
What are your thoughts on the Asian5Nations ‘Top 5’ tournament coming up later this year?
The Asian5Nations ‘Top 5’ is another important tournament coming up and it will be important to perform well. Earlier, if someone said ‘Japan’ there was a lot of fear, but now we are not scared and we will hope to give a good fight. The coaches and trainers have improved in quality, and so have the players.
What are your plans beyond rugby?
I want to play for Sri Lanka for as long as I could, I haven’t made any plans beyond rugby as yet.
