Sri Lions are set to line up with a power packed squad for the Dubai Sevens International Open Men’s 2024 tournament from the 29th of November to the 1st of December.
The plate Champions from 2023, Sri Lions have been able to put-together a star studded line up for this year’s tournament.
The Sri Lions have united Sri Lanka’s top school rugby talents with experienced international players to build a formidable squad for this year’s tournament.
Among the standout local players is flanker Raveen Fernando, a key member of St. Peter’s College, Bambalapitiya’s League Championship-winning team. Joining him are Thikshana Eshan, celebrated for his versatility, and Dinuk Amerasinghe, a former standout three-quarter from St. Anthony’s College, Katugastota, who also excelled with CR & FC.
Adding leadership and skill is Dulaj Navodya, a former captain of the St. Peter’s College rugby team, while Mohamed Nizran completes the lineup of outstanding Sri Lankan talent.
The team’s international roster features celebrated players from Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, South Africa, and Australia, adding global firepower.
Among them is Simione F. Moala, a three-time national champion and former Tonga 7s captain with over 200 games at the sport’s highest level. The Fijian contingent includes Rauto Vakadranu, Tira Welagi Patterson, Manueli Maisamoa, and Jope Tikoilepanoni, all known for their electrifying pace and flair as representatives of the Fiji National Squad. Jean van Schalkwyk from South Africa, part of the 2023 national Sevens squad, adds strategic depth, while Charles Philip Taylor, a former Australian Rugby 7s player (2016–2018) and current Premiership Rugby standout with the Dubai Tigers, enhances the team’s versatility and experience.
Looking ahead to the competition, Sri Lions founder and president Dr. Kelum Sujith Perera expressed confidence in the team’s potential and the broader impact of their participation.
“This year’s Dubai Sevens is a milestone for the Sri Lions. Last year, we proved that Sri Lankans could thrive on the global stage. With this year’s exceptional lineup, I’m confident we’ll achieve even greater success,” said Dr. Perera.
He emphasized the team’s mission beyond winning: “This tournament is about showcasing Sri Lankan talent and inspiring national pride. Our players, both local and international, are ambassadors of Sri Lanka’s rugby excellence. It’s also a step towards building a lasting legacy for Sri Lankan rugby, both in the UAE and at home.”
Dr. Perera also called on the Sri Lankan community to support the team: “We carry the hopes of Sri Lankans everywhere. Their encouragement fuels our passion. I invite every Sri Lankan in the UAE and beyond to cheer for the Sri Lions as we aim to make our nation proud.”
The Sri Lions’ participation in the Dubai Sevens 2024 reflects their ambition and growth as they strive to create a lasting impact in international rugby while elevating Sri Lanka’s presence on the global stage.
Line-Up:
Charles Philip Taylor, Jean van Schalkwyk, Jope Tikoilepanoni, Manueli Maisamoa, Tira Welagi Patterson, Rauto Vakadranu, Simione F. Moala, Mohamed Nizran, Dulaj Navodya, Dinuk Amerasinghe, Thikshana Eshan, Raveen Fernando
