In a move that signals a renewed focus on tactical acumen and attacking flair, Zahira College Colombo has officially appointed the 4th Year Coloursman and their dynamic flyhalf, Hakeem Chunchi, as the captain of the first XV rugby team for the upcoming season.
Chunchi, known for his composure under pressure and his strategic kicking game, steps into the leadership role at a pivotal time for the Zahirians as they prepare to face stiff competition in the elite schools’ rugby circuit. He was a great servant to Zahirian rugby over the years by playing at the fly-half position, with his unique blend of vision, game-reading and decision-making abilities. Though Chunchi scored a few times during the last season, his try-scoring tally definitely underestimates his performances, as he created multiple opportunities and triggered many tries for the finishers by dictating the tempo of the game.
- Shaakib Zumri to spearhead Isipathana Rugby in 2026
- Kicking-star Shan Althaf to lead Trinity rugby outfit
Further, Zahira College announced the solid front rower and talented hooker, M. Sahib Ishan, as a vice-captain, apart from his duty of leading the forward unit. He scored an iconic try against Mahanama by bulldozing the defence, which is definitely a testament to his pure power. During the upcoming season, the Zahirian forwards will definitely rally around Sahib to bring out the maximum they could against any opponent on the field.
In the meantime, the outside centre three-quarter Zain Zahim will assume the duties as the other vice captain of the side. Zain, who is renowned for his individual brilliance, is a versatile player who quickly adapts to the playmaker’s role. During the past season a huge responsibility was bestowed on him, and he lived up to the billing by clinching a couple of “Swisstek Player of the Match” awards against Vidyartha College and Dharmaraja College. Further, he scored a couple of magnificent tries against some tough oppositions in the fray, Isipathana College and St Thomas’ College.
In addition, the ferocious inside centre A. Basith Feroz will render his service in the capacity of the co-vice captain of this spirited Zahira outfit. Basith had already done an exceptional duty for his side as the regular placekicker of the side. Further, his natural ability to slot crucial penalties and execute cross-kicks to the wingers will add extra depth for the side. He had displayed his class during last season by slotting 5 conversions at the R.I.T. Alles Trophy against D.S. Senanayake College and another 4 conversions against Mahanama College.
Zahira College has retained the rugby maestro, ex-Sri Lankan Kandy SC player Radhika Hettiarachchi, as the head coach, while another ex-Sri Lankan player and former Isipathana College coach, Dhanushka Botheju, will look after the forwards.
During the last year, Zahirians had a brilliant run in the Dialogue Schools Rugby Knockouts Championship by reaching the semifinals, where they unluckily went down to the league champions, Trinity College. Subsequently, they had a modest league by selecting to compete for the plate championship. As the season approaches, the Zahirians will be determined to display a new brand of rugby under Chunchi’s captaincy. With the flyhalf pulling the strings on the field and leading the charge off it, Zahira College fans have reason to be optimistic. With the captaincy responsibilities, Hakeem Chunchi will aim to translate his individual brilliance into collective team success to pull off a historic season.
Hakeem Chunchi carrying out his place kicking duties against Kingswood College during 2025 season
Captain, Coaches and Management Staff of Zahira College Rugby Outfit – 2026
Team Captain – Hakeem Chunchi
Vice Captain – M. Sahib Ishan and Zain Zahim
Co-vice captain – A. Basith Feroz
Head Coach – Radhika Hettiarachchi
Forwards Coach – Dhanushka Botheju
Backs Coach – Radhika Hettiarachchi
Kicking Coach – Prince Chamara
Trainer – Nafeez Naizer
MIC – Mr. Rohitha
