St. Anthony’s College Rugby Preview
History
St. Anthony’s College, Kandy, has a storied history in school rugby, dating back to 1956. Initially playing mostly 2nd XV matches, the team began competing in full seasons by 1961. The college achieved a significant milestone in 2001 by becoming the Schools Rugby League Champions. Over the years, St. Anthony’s has produced numerous outstanding Sri Lankan players who have contributed significantly to the development, coaching, and administration of rugby across the country.
- Last-Gasp Heroics Hand Isipathana Back-to-Back President’s Trophy Titles
- Ananda College outclass St. Benedict’s to lift Premier Trophy
- Isipathana Hold Off Late Royal Surge to March Into the Final
- Clinical St. Benedict’s Too Strong for Prince of Wales’
Current Outfit
Following a disappointing 2024 season, where St. Anthony’s College managed to win only 1 out of their 7 games, the team is in desperate need of a turnaround this year. However, the Eagles didn’t start the season well, suffering a heavy defeat at the hands of their hometown rivals, Trinity College, in the opening game of the season played as part of the round of 16 in the Dialog Schools Rugby Knockouts.
The leadership baton this year has been passed on to Omitha Dissanayake, who largely impressed last season as a fly-half, despite the team’s overall struggles. He will be supported by vice-captains Randeer Perera and Ravindu Gregory, both of whom bring a wealth of experience to the side.
The squad this year is relatively inexperienced compared to the previous season’s, but it does include four fourth-year coloursmen and two third-year coloursmen. This mix of experience and youth offers a balanced approach, providing a solid foundation for both immediate improvement and long term development.
Players to Watch Out For
Skipper Omitha Dissanayake will undoubtedly be one to watch this season. He brings versatility to the Antonian lineup, switching roles between fly-half and fullback depending on the team’s requirements. He will also take charge of the kicking duties.
The forwards will be marshaled by deputy skipper Ravindu Gregory, who plays at No. 8, while Randeer Perera, the other deputy, will bring his experience to the backline as a centre. One of last year’s standout performers, Lakmina Bulugahena, who impressed as a fullback, will feature more on the wing this season and is expected to be a vital component of the team.
The squad is also strengthened by the return of hooker Avan Ekanayake and fly-half/fullback Deshan Liyanage.
Coaches
With a focus on transition and development, the Eagles have made a smart move by appointing former Sri Lanka cap Saliya Kumara as head coach. He brings a wealth of experience, having won multiple titles during his three-year tenure with Isipathana College.
His coaching unit includes Dahan Wickramarachchi as forwards coach and Darshana Ethipola as backs coach, both of whom have worked closely with Saliya Kumara in the past. Roshan Hemantha will serve as the team’s trainer.
Expectations for the season
With the appointment of an experienced and proven coach like Saliya Kumara, the Antonians will aim for some wins this season. However, the bigger picture would be to nurture talent through match experience and work towards regaining a consistent winning streak in the seasons to come. That said, you never know, the Antonians have always been a team capable of upsetting the top contenders.
The Eagles will play 4 out of their 5 first-round games at Nittawela, their home ground. Their league season kicks off on the 6th of June at Nittawela against D.S. Senanayake College, a fixture that will also mark the inaugural edition of The Alles Cup.
All eyes will be on the Antonians as they embark on this new journey, eager to see how they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
For detailed updates and match reports, you can visit ThePapare.com.
Full Squad
Forwards – Ravindu Gregory (Vice-Captain), Yohan Kaniston, Nethmika Liyanage, Tharusha Karunanayake, Avan Ekanayake, Chandira Galapitage, Mohamed Lamaan, Munzil Muzammil, Yohan Sashen, Sheran Iduwara, Nirmal Seneviratne, Tharusha Wijesinghe
Backs – Omitha Dissanayake (Captain), Randeer Perera (Vice-Captain), Lakmina Bulugahena, Deshan Liyanage, Vimukthi Kodikara, Shone Emmanuel, Mohamed Shimak, Ishan Samarasinghe, Shevin Fonseka, Minal Imalsha, H. Inshaf, Ashan keerthisiri, Manuja Mahavithana, Ravindu Balasooriya, Binara Vithanage, Ravichandran Habith, Kavindu Ranasinghe
