Insight into the Dharmaraja College Rugby Team Competing in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025
History
According to sources, Dharmaraja College’s association with the oval-shaped ball dates back to the 1920s. However, the game eventually faded from the school’s sports agenda. In 1970, Rajans Rugby was reborn, and the team began playing friendly matches. By 1976, Rajans Rugby had become a threat to many established sides under the guidance of Thomian Lal Kumarasinghe, who served dual roles as both coach and master-in-charge.
A significant rise in Rajans Rugby followed. In 2010, the team claimed their maiden all-island title by winning the All-Island Singer 10s tournament under the leadership of Miyuru Hewawasam. In 2012, rugby stalwart Hisham Abdeen coached the team as they ushered in a new era, clinching the Division B League Championship and earning promotion to the Division A League, where Sri Lanka’s top schools compete. That same year, they also won the All-Island 7s tournament and reached the semi-finals of the President’s Trophy.
In 2013, Dharmaraja College reached the pinnacle of their rugby journey by winning the All-Island Division A League title for the first time, becoming the third Kandyan school to do so after Trinity and Kingswood. The champion team was coached by former Rajan, Kandy, and Sri Lanka skipper Radhika Hettiarachchi and captained by Lochana Hettiarachchi. The team also featured rare talents like Buwaneka Udangamuwa and Thilina Wijesinghe.
Since then, Dharmaraja College has struggled to impress their loyal fans. However, their occasional strong performances have helped them retain a place in Division 1 without relegation, and the Rajans are aiming for a resurgence in 2025.
Current Outfit
The current Dharmaraja rugby outfit is a balanced mix of seasoned players and rising talent. With heavy, powerful forwards and blistering three-quarters, the Rajans have the potential to defeat even the strongest opponents on their day.
However, inconsistency has plagued the team over the years. That said, the boys training at the picturesque Lake View Grounds have done their homework and are determined to break the hoodoo in 2025.
Fly-half Damsith Rathnayake will captain the Rajans, supported by talented vice-captain and fullback Sadeesha Weerakoon.
Players to Watch
High hopes are pinned on team captain Damsith Rathnayake, a fourth-year coloursman. Known for his game-reading ability and situational leadership, Rathnayake is expected to guide Rajans Rugby to become a formidable force this season. His partnership with vice-captain/fullback Sadeesha will be critical to the team’s success, as the duo also handles the team’s kicking duties.
Dynamic wingers Bihanga Bandara and Dumindu Rajapakshe will be key in creating scoring opportunities with their lightning speed and deceptive footwork.
The team also boasts a rare twin brother combination in the second row, with the exceptional Dissanayake duo adding strength and height to the forwards. Meanwhile, No. 8 Matheesha is another outstanding player, expected to lead the pack to new heights.
Another standout is center Vidun Saparamadu, who brings both pace and power to the team’s attacking and defensive efforts.
Coaching Staff
A last-minute change saw the appointment of renowned coach Sanjaya Amunugama as head coach. A former player for Havelock SC, CH & FC, Dubai Exiles, and Abu Dhabi Harlequins, Amunugama was also the St. Anthony’s College rugby skipper in 1986 and has coached their first XV during several stints.
Joining him is assistant coach and forwards coach Piyumal Manchanayake, a former Kingswood, Kandy SC, and Navy SC player. Another assistant coach is former Rajan player Sathsara Basnayake, while Nadeeka Bandara serves as the team’s power trainer.
Expectations for the Season
After a twelve-year title drought, Dharmaraja College is aiming to finish the season as champions. Last season, they secured wins against St. Anthony’s, Sumanagala, and Science College, while suffering heavy defeats in the remaining four games. The Rajans face a significant challenge in regaining their former glory.
Their opening fixture against Zahira College will be crucial—an away game they must win. The Rajans are also favorites against newcomers Mahanama College in their second match. Three major home games follow, against Isipathana, S. Thomas’s, and Kingswood—fixtures that will demand stellar performances.
Consistency alone will not be enough; the team’s key players must step up in decisive moments to deliver the finishing touches that have been missing in recent seasons. Despite recent struggles, Dharmaraja College remains a force to be reckoned with in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025.
Full Squad
- Forwards – Matheesha Sadew, Ishuwara Abilash, Thiwanka Jayasundara, Gayan Samarathunga, Buvindu Nonis, Akita Rasanjana, Dineth Hettiarachchi, Shevon Jayathunga, Dileesha Dissanayake, Naveen Rajapaksha, Kawishwara Lewliyadda, Wageesha Dissanayake, Sasindu Dissanayake, Suraj Bandara, Sandun Gunasinghe, Induneth Bandara, Dulkith Dias
- Backs – Damsith Rathnayake, Sadeesha Weerakoon, Bihanga Yapa Bandara, Dumindu Rajapaksha, Githma Rathnayake, Lakshitha Amarasooriya, Sandesh Konara, Pawan Manodya, Sadeesha Bandara, Akash Herath, Janith Kulasekara, Pahan Rajapaksha, Sadew Liyanage, Inuka Rathwatte, Chathura Weerakkody, Janith Ishan, Vidun Saparamadu
- Team Manager – Kavinda Jayasundara
- Master in Charge – Thusitha Prasanna Udayasiri
Fixtures
- Vs Zahira College – 06th June in Colombo
- Vs Mahanama College – 14rd June in Colombo
- Vs Isipathana College – 22th June at Nittawela Rugby Stadium
- Vs St. Thomas College – 27th June at Nittawela Rugby Stadium
- Vs Kingswood College – 05th July at Nittawela Rugby Stadium
