Zahira College and D.S. Senanayake College will renew their rugby rivalry at the 5th R.I.T. Alles Memorial Challenge Trophy on Saturday, 19th July 2025, at the Zahira College Grounds. The highly anticipated main encounter kicks off at 4:00 PM, following junior matches scheduled from 1:00 PM.
Inaugurated in 2018, the R.I.T. Alles Memorial Challenge Trophy pays tribute to the late Ralph Ignatius Thomas Alles, affectionately known as “Alles Sir”, whose contributions to Sri Lankan education have left a lasting legacy. A visionary leader, Alles Sir was the founding principal of D.S. Senanayake College in 1967, where he introduced rugby in 1974, laying the foundation for the school’s sporting journey. He later served as the Director of Studies at Zahira College from 1983 to 1985, where he was admired for his commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence.
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The annual encounter not only honours Alles Sir’s legacy but also serves as a powerful symbol of unity, camaraderie, and mutual respect between the two institutions. Over the years, this event has grown into more than just a rugby fixture—it is a celebration of shared history, values, and friendship through sport.
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As the fixture enters its fifth edition, the record stands at two wins each for Zahira College and D.S. Senanayake College, making this year’s match a tiebreaker and one of the most eagerly awaited encounters in the series.
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Both schools extend a warm invitation to students, parents, alumni, old boys, and rugby enthusiasts to witness an evening of high-quality school rugby and spirited sportsmanship.
Sri Lanka’s No.1 Sports Channel – ThePapare will broadcast this thrilling rugby match LIVE on their website.
