Let’s take a closer look at the Zahira College Rugby team that will be competing in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025.
History
Zahira College, Colombo boasts a proud rugby legacy dating back to 1924, making it one of the first schools in Sri Lanka to adopt the sport. Historic highlights include an unbeaten season in 1932—becoming the first team to defeat Trinity College—and clinching the 1962 League Championship. In recent years, Zahira has remained a competitive force, finishing in the Top 6 and Top 8 of the 2023 and 2024 Dialog Schools Rugby League, and reaching the semi-finals of the latest Knockouts.
- Dominant New Zealand U85kg Outclass Sri Lanka
- Brave Sri Lanka Unable to Stop Dominant New Zealand U-85KGs
- Last-Gasp Heroics Hand Isipathana Back-to-Back President’s Trophy Titles
- Trinity storm their way into the Finals of the Dialog School Knockout Championship after a 12 year hiatus
Current Outfit
The 2025 Zahira College rugby team is an experienced and well-balanced side, having lost only a handful of seniors from last year’s squad. The newcomers have integrated seamlessly, strengthening the team as they set their sights on surpassing recent top-tier finishes in the Schools Rugby League.
For the 2025 season, Zahira College will be guided by Luqman Ul Hakeem as captain, with Abdullah Hassan serving as vice captains.
Players to Watch Out For
Skipper Luqman Nadeem is expected to be a key presence in the centre position, with his partner Zain Zahim also poised to make a significant impact. Hakeem Chunchi and Basith Feroz will play crucial roles in game management, providing control and direction for Zahira. On the wings, Abdulla Hassan stands out as a dynamic threat and a reliable last line of defense, depending on the situation.
In the forwards, Iyaad Yousef will lead the pack, while Raihan Rushan will anchor the set pieces as hooker—both having already showcased their abilities. Together, they represent a strong and cohesive unit brimming with talent.
Coaches
The team is led by Head Coach Radhika Hettiarachchi, a former national player and championship-winning coach, assisted by Forwards Coach Kavinda Jayasena, trainer Nafees Naizer, and physiotherapist Nimesh De Silva. This experienced coaching lineup aims to further develop the team’s potential and strategic play.
Expectations for the Season
With a proud legacy and consistent recent performances—including a Top 6 finish in 2023, a Top 8 finish in 2024, and a semi-final appearance in the recent Knockouts—Zahira College enters the 2025 Schools Rugby League with both momentum and ambition. Supported by experienced coaching and a talented, well-balanced squad, the team is determined to build on its past successes and climb even higher in the standings. Their clear objective this season is to secure a Top 2 finish in their group and qualify for the prestigious Cup segment. Focused, driven, and full of potential, Zahira is undoubtedly a team to watch in 2025.
Full Squad
Forwards – Naweed Nishan, Sahib Ishan, Aaqib Imraaz, Ameen Rifas, Rifnaz Rimshard, Zain Hassan, Farhan Fazlath, Risly Ahamed, Habeeb Uzni, Iyaad Yusuf, Sabith Rizvi, Arafath Ahamed, Aakif Azmil, Abdul Muzil, Ahmed Riyas, Tuan Raheem, Saifullah Zulfikar, Mujahid Assan, Shaheel Shiyam, Hakam Hatham, and Arqam Azmer..
Backs – Luqman Ul Hakeem(C), Abdullah Hassan (VC), Hakeem Chunchi, Afham Abdeen, Zain Zahim, Imtiyas Iflan, Imadh Inam, Basith Feroz, Mohamed Sabeer, Ufair Zain, Rilwan Rizly, Zaid Irshad, Ghani Saraph, Zaid Fazal, Simark Samidon, and Binuk Perera
Fixtures
- Vs Dharmaraja College – 06th June at Zahira Grounds Maradana
- Vs Thomas’ College – 14th June at S.Thomas’ Grounds Mount Lavinia
- Vs Kingswood College – 21st June at Zahira Grounds Maradana
- Vs Isipathana College – 28th June at Zahira Grounds Maradana
- Vs Mahanama College – 05th July at Zahira Grounds Maradana
