Let’s take a closer look at the Thurstan College Rugby team that will be competing in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025.
History
Thurstan College boasts a proud rugby legacy, cultivated over six decades since adopting the sport in 1957. Over the years, they’ve built a strong tradition, highlighted by winning the coveted President’s Trophy in 1998 and the Abdul Jabbar Shield in 2005. More recently, Thurstan secured the Premier Trophy in 2016, 2018, and as double champions in Division 1 Segment B in 2023, underscoring their consistent competitive spirit.
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Current Outfit
This year, Thurstan College will carry valuable experience from their 2024 season. While a few players from the previous year’s squad have moved on, the core of the team remains intact, positioning the 2025 squad to significantly improve their game.
For the 2025 season, Thurstan College will be guided by Hansa Indramala as captain, with Esitha Apoorwa and Vinuka Hejitha serving as co-vice captains.
Players to Watch Out For
The Thurstanites’ attack will be heavily reliant on their halfback pairing of Hansa Indramala (Captain) and Esitha Apoorwa (Co-Vice Captain). This duo is set to orchestrate the team’s play with precision and control, as their decision-making will largely dictate the game’s momentum.
Bolstering the team’s core, the forwards will be led by co-vice-captain Vinuka Hejitha, who will benefit from the valuable experience of last year’s skipper, Sithija Jayathilaka, to significantly boost their pack’s performance.
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Coaches
The Thurstanites are led by the experienced Shamly Nawaz as Head Coach, with Ranuka Madagedara overseeing the Forwards and Saliya Hadapangoda serving as the Backs Coach.
This dedicated coaching team is focused on guiding their talented youngsters, aiming to continue uplifting the team and ensuring they make a significant impact in the rugby season, demonstrating their competitive spirit.
Expectations for the Season
Entering the 2025 season, Thurstan College has clear objectives: to firmly establish their presence in the highly competitive Division 1 segment A. Their immediate aim is not just to survive, but to secure crucial victories against established powerhouses. While a championship challenge remains a long-term aspiration, the short-term focus is squarely on amassing enough wins to solidify their place in the top division, thereby showcasing their capabilities and building a robust foundation for sustained future success.
Full Squad
Forwards – Vinuka Hejitha (Vice Captain), Sawan Paransara, Dileen Nethroo, S.K. Tharusha, Nadew Thiseera, Heshan Sathsaara, Jayathu Rasanjana, Ruchara Hishan, Amitha Rusiru, Sithija Jayathilaka, Yasas Vidushana, Yehen Anavaratne, Janaka Idunil, Vidusha Dolawaththa, Kalana Koojana, and Thambu Dasun Nimsara
Backs – Hansa Indramala (Captain), Esitha Apoorwa (Vice Captain), Januda Bashitha, Shashira Sarusha, Sadila Geerasinghe, Dilshan Bandara, Hasanda Sesilu, Akeesha Pushpakumara. Vishuka Milanga, Sanjuna Paranavitahana, Theekshana Heshan, Thineeth Pabasara, Thenuka Viran, Senath Kenula, and Amindu Rajapaksha.
Fixtures
- Vs Royal College – 06th June at Royal Complex
- Vs St. Joseph’s College – 14th June at CR & FC
- Vs Trinity College – 20th June at Sugathadasa Stadium
- Vs Sri Sumangala College – 27th June at Bogambara
- Vs Vidyartha College – 05th July at Airforce Grounds Ratmalana
