Let’s take a closer look at the D.S. Senanayake College Rugby team that will be competing in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025.
History
D.S. Senanayake College’s rugby journey began in 1976, as the school diligently nurtured its program, laying the groundwork for future triumphs. The 2020s marked a remarkable resurgence for DS rugby; in 2022, they clinched the Division 1 Segment B title, a testament to their growing prowess. This success propelled them back into the prestigious Division 1 Segment A in 2023, signalling their intent to challenge traditional rugby powerhouses. The 2024 season further solidified their position with a commendable sixth-place finish in the league, highlighted by their maiden win against Trinity College Kandy.
- Last-Gasp Heroics Hand Isipathana Back-to-Back President’s Trophy Titles
- Peterite Backline Too Good For Thurstan
Current Outfit
The 2025 D.S. Senanayake College rugby squad is a well-balanced unit, boasting a mix of powerful forwards and a lightning-fast backline, all guided by a strong leadership group.
For the 2025 season, D.S. Senanayake College will be guided by Lankesh Wickramasinghe as captain, with Sandeep Lakshan, Methila Pieris and Rasindu Bandara serving as co-vice captains.
Players to Watch Out For
Captain Lankesh Wickramasinghe will lead the pack, providing crucial strength and accurate lineouts. Methila Pieris, a dynamic Flanker, is expected to be a force at the breakdown, while No. 8 Praveen Lakmal offers significant ball-carrying and scoring threats. Thimath Bogahawatta will also be vital for scrum stability and powerful carries from the tight head prop position.
Co-Vice Captain Sandeep Lakshan will be key in orchestrating the backline’s attacking movements with his pace and tactical awareness. Fellow Co-Vice Captain Rasindu Bandara brings versatility and individual brilliance at both Fullback and Flyhalf, crucial for directing play and exploiting opportunities.
- Last-Gasp Heroics Hand Isipathana Back-to-Back President’s Trophy Titles
- Royal Outmuscle DS to Seal Semifinal Berth
Coaches
The D.S. Senanayake rugby team thrives under the guidance of an experienced and committed coaching staff, spearheaded by Head Coach Asela Deshapriya. Renowned for his tactical insight and inspiring leadership, Deshapriya has played a pivotal role in the team’s transformation from underdogs to genuine title contenders. Supporting him is a well-rounded coaching unit comprising Assistant Coach Ashane Dassanayake, Strength and Conditioning Coach Sunimal Manamperi, Backs Coach Dinesh De Silva, and Forwards Coach Janindu Fernando. This comprehensive structure ensures that every facet of the game—from physical preparation to positional specialization—is carefully developed, setting the Dons up for a formidable 2025 campaign.
Expectations for the Season
The 2025 season brings high expectations for D.S. Senanayake College, as the team looks to make a strong impression in an increasingly competitive schools’ rugby landscape. Building on steady progress in recent years, the Dons are now setting their sights firmly on silverware. With a clear goal of reaching the latter stages of the league, they are poised to challenge the top contenders throughout the season. Fans can expect a campaign fueled by determination, dynamic rugby, and an unrelenting pursuit of championship glory—sure to keep rugby enthusiasts thoroughly engaged.
Full Squad
Forwards – Lankesh Wickramasinghe (C), Methila Peiris (VC), Demika Vindinu ,Thiviru Uthmina, Geethma Dissanayake , Viruja Jayathileke, Shenal Kethmina, Buddhi Peiris, Chanmira Senvindu, Chamika Gimhana, Mohomad Ihsan, Yerash Bumuddaka, Sathila Rumeth, Tharusha Nethmal, Thimath Bogahawaththa, Dushal Ayeshmantha, and Praveen Lakmal.
Backs – Sandeep Caldera (VC), Rasindu Bandara (VC) ,Sujeewa Kumara, Resath Fernando, Ushan Kavishka Priyalal, Kavindu Hansaka, Lithum Weerasinghe, Buddhitha Rusiru, Kinith Gimhan, Tatheera Dahamdiv Perera, Pahan Nimsara, Induwara Dineth, Sanu Perera, Thenula De Silva, Yasanda Dinan, Lihara Wickramasinghe and Chamith Samarasinghe.
Fixtures
- Vs Anthony’s College – 06th June at Nittawela
- Vs Wesley College – 15th June at CR & FC
- Vs Ananda College – 21st June at Ananda Grounds
- Vs Science College – 27th June at Havelock Park
- Vs Peter’s College – 05th July at Bambalapitiya
